[Federal Register Volume 63, Number 131 (Thursday, July 9, 1998)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 37172-37210]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 98-17589]



[[Page 37171]]

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Part II





Department of Transportation





_______________________________________________________________________



Federal Aviation Administration



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14 CFR Parts 65, 66, and 147



Revision of Certification Requirements: Mechanics and Repairmen; 
Proposed Rules



Proposed Advisory Circulars, 66-XX: Aviation Maintenance Personnel 
Certification Regulations, Recurrent Training Requirements, and 
Aviation Maintenance Technician Training Program Providers Approval; 
Notice

Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 131 / Thursday, July 9, 1998 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 37172]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Parts 65, 66, and 147

[Docket No. 27863; Notice No. 98-5]
RIN 2120-AF22


Revision of Certification Requirements: Mechanics and Repairmen

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: This document proposes to amend the Federal Aviation 
Regulations (FAR) that prescribe the certification and training 
requirements for mechanics and repairmen. Current regulations 
prescribing these requirements do not reflect the extensive differences 
in the maintenance skills required of currently certificated personnel, 
the significant technological advances that have occurred in the 
aviation industry, and the enhancements in training and instructional 
methods that have affected all aviation maintenance personnel. The 
proposed rule would consolidate and clarify all certification, 
training, and experience requirements for aviation maintenance 
personnel in a newly established part of the Code of Federal 
Regulations. The proposed rule would create additional certificates and 
ratings, and would modify the privileges and limitations of current 
certificates to respond more closely to the responsibilities of 
aviation maintenance personnel. In addition, the proposal would 
establish new training requirements that would enhance the technical 
capabilities of, and increase the level of professionalism among, 
aviation maintenance personnel. Further, as current rules do not 
provide the FAA with an accurate assessment of active aviation 
maintenance personnel, the proposal also would provide the FAA with 
essential demographic information that could be used to disseminate 
vital aviation safety and training information, thereby enhancing 
aviation safety. All of the proposals in this document have been 
extensively researched for the FAA by the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory 
Committee (ARAC) Part 65 Working Group, and all proposals made in this 
document are based on the ARAC's recommendations.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before November 6, 1998.

ADDRESSES: Comments on this proposed rule should be delivered or 
mailed, in triplicate, to: Federal Aviation Administration, Office of 
the Chief Counsel, Attn: Rules Docket (AGC-200), Docket No. 27863, Room 
915G, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591. Comments 
submitted must be marked: ``Docket No. 27863.'' Comments also may be 
submitted electronically to the following Internet address: 9-NPRM-
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection" class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="0d4e40595e4d6b6c6c23696279236a627b23">[email protected]</a> Comments may be examined in Room 915G on weekdays, 
except Federal holidays, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Leslie K. Vipond, AFS-350, Continuous 
Airworthiness Maintenance Division, Flight Standards Service, Federal 
Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 
20591, telephone (202) 267-3269.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    Interested persons are invited to participate in the making of the 
proposed rule by submitting such written data, views, or arguments as 
they may desire. Comments relating to the environmental, energy, 
federalism, or economic impact that might result from adopting the 
proposals in this notice also are invited. Substantive comments should 
be accompanied by cost estimates. Comments should identify the 
regulatory docket or notice number and should be submitted in 
triplicate to the Rules Docket address specified above.
    All comments received, as well as a report summarizing each 
substantive public contact with FAA personnel on this rulemaking, will 
be filed in the docket. The docket is available for public inspection 
before and after the comment closing date.
    All comments received on or before the closing date will be 
considered by the Administrator before taking action on this proposed 
rulemaking. Late-filed comments will be considered to the extent 
practicable. The proposals contained in this notice may be changed in 
light of the comments received.
    Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments 
submitted in response to this notice must include a pre-addressed, 
stamped postcard with those comments on which the following statement 
is made: ``Comments to Docket No. 27863.'' The postcard will be date 
stamped and mailed to the commenter.

Availability of NPRMs

    Using a modem and suitable communications software, an electronic 
copy of this document may be downloaded from the FAA regulations 
section of the FedWorld electronic bulletin board service (telephone: 
(703) 321-3339), the Government Printing Office's electronic bulletin 
board service (telephone: (202) 512-1661), or the FAA's Aviation 
Rulemaking Advisory Committee bulletin board service (telephone: (800) 
322-2722).
    Internet users may reach the FAA's webpage at <a href="http://www.faa.gov/
avr/nprm/nprm.htm">http://www.faa.gov/
avr/nprm/nprm.htm</a> or the Government Printing Office's webpage at http:/
/www.access.gpo.gov/nara for access to recently published rulemaking 
documents.
    Any person may obtain a copy of this NPRM by submitting a request 
to the Federal Aviation Administration, Office of Rulemaking, ARM-1, 
800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591, or by calling (202) 
267-9860. Communications must identify the notice number of this NPRM.
    Persons interested in being placed on the mailing list for future 
NPRMs should request from the above office a copy of Advisory Circular 
(AC) No. 11-2A, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Distribution System, 
which describes the application procedure.

Background

Statement of the Problem

    In keeping with the FAA's policy of reviewing and upgrading 
regulations to ensure that they are consistent with changes in the 
aviation environment, the FAA has conducted a multiphase regulatory 
review to amend subparts D and E of 14 CFR part 65, which pertain to 
mechanics and repairmen. Since the recodification of the Civil Air 
Regulations into the FAR on August 10, 1962, a complete regulatory 
review of the certification requirements for these airmen has not been 
accomplished, and few significant revisions to these subparts have been 
made. However, numerous technological advances in the aviation 
industry, recent FAA and international regulatory activities, concerns 
over aging aircraft, and enhancements in training methods have 
significantly affected all aspects of aviation maintenance operations. 
Additionally, various and often conflicting interpretations of the 
existing regulations have resulted in confusion among the airmen for 
whom this part was intended. Based on these factors, the FAA has 
instituted this complete regulatory review of part 65, subparts D and 
E.

[[Page 37173]]

History

    In November 1989, a joint industry/FAA part 65 review group was 
formed to evaluate and review certification requirements for mechanics 
and repairmen. The review group's objective was to develop and present 
a unified position on recommended changes to part 65. The group was 
composed of representatives from several aviation associations and was 
coordinated by the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association 
(PAMA). FAA interests were represented by the Aircraft Maintenance 
Division (AFS-300) of the FAA.
    The review group conducted a series of panel discussions throughout 
the United States and, as a result, drafted the ``Industry/FAA Part 65 
Review Group Working Paper,'' which was completed on January 31, 1991. 
This paper presented the issues of general agreement within the review 
group and issues that the group believed would require further 
discussion.
    In support of this regulatory review, the FAA also completed a 
historical review of part 65, subparts D and E, on October 22, 1991. 
This review revealed that, as of October 1991, there had been 17 
amendments (1 of which was rescinded), 3 petitions for rulemaking, and 
100 exemption actions to these subparts since recodification in 1962. 
In addition, one accident, the Aloha Airlines Boeing 737 structural 
failure on April 28, 1988, generated National Transportation Safety 
Board (NTSB) recommendations related to amending these subparts.
    The three petitions for rulemaking addressed issues associated with 
establishing certificates and ratings for avionics and instrument 
technicians, recertifying mechanics, and allowing applicants for 
mechanic certificates who have not graduated from an aviation 
maintenance technician school approved under 14 CFR part 147 to take 
the oral and practical tests for a certificate or rating before 
completing the required written tests.
    The majority of the requests for exemption, FAA policy letters, and 
legal interpretations regarding mechanics pertained to issues affecting 
inspection authorization renewal or to general eligibility and 
experience requirements. The majority of requests for similar actions 
concerning repairmen involved issues pertaining to certificate 
privileges and limitations.
    During 1991, the FAA conducted a survey of FAA regional offices on 
the certification of mechanics, holders of inspection authorizations, 
and repairmen. A copy of this survey has been placed in Docket No. 
27863.
    The survey questions were derived from issues that were raised 
during FAA participation in listening sessions with aviation industry 
associations and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) 
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Licensing Panel and from issues 
identified in legal interpretations, petitions for exemption, petitions 
for rulemaking, and enforcement actions.
    Results of this survey showed clear support for: (1) replacing the 
term ``mechanic'' with ``aviation maintenance technician''; (2) 
developing a system for granting additional privileges and limitations 
for mechanics; (3) encouraging additional FAA participation with ICAO 
and other aviation authorities to standardize training and 
certification of maintenance personnel; (4) using aviation maintenance 
instructor experience to satisfy recent experience requirements; (5) 
clarifying Sec. 65.75(b), regarding written test requirements; (6) 
adding the term ``facsimile'' to Sec. 65.16; and (7) developing a 
separate certificate or rating for balloon repairmen. The majority of 
the respondents supported changes in the English-language requirements 
for mechanics and repairmen, the continued acceptance of military 
aircraft maintenance experience as the basis for airframe and 
powerplant mechanic certification, and changes in the units of time 
(from months to hours) used in current Sec. 65.77 to measure experience 
requirements for mechanics.
    Further impetus for the part 65 review came with the establishment 
of the ARAC. The ARAC charter became effective on February 5, 1991 (56 
FR 2190, January 22, 1991). It was most recently renewed on February 5, 
1997 (FAA Order 1110.119C, Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee; 
March 3, 1997). The ARAC was established to assist the FAA in the 
rulemaking process by providing input from outside the Federal 
Government on major regulatory issues affecting aviation safety. The 
ARAC includes representatives of air carriers, manufacturers, general 
aviation, labor groups, colleges, universities, associations, airline 
passenger groups, and the general public. The ARAC's formation has 
given the FAA additional opportunities to solicit information directly 
from significantly affected parties, who meet and exchange ideas about 
proposed rules and existing rules that should be revised or eliminated. 
The FAA has received significant assistance from the ARAC in this 
review and in the formulation of the proposals in this NPRM.
    At its first meeting on air carrier/general aviation maintenance 
issues on May 24, 1991 (56 FR 20492, May 3, 1991), the ARAC established 
the Part 65 Working Group. The ARAC tasked this Working Group to 
conduct a review of the certification requirements for mechanics, 
mechanics holding inspection authorizations, and repairmen. At that 
time, these requirements were in part 65, subparts D and E. Because the 
scope of the Working Group's task was extensive, the group divided its 
review of the certification requirements for aviation maintenance 
personnel into two phases.
    Once the first phase of this review was complete, the ARAC analyzed 
the efforts of the Working Group and made a series of recommendations 
to the FAA, which resulted in the FAA's issuance of Notice No. 94-27 on 
August 17, 1994 (59 FR 42430). That NPRM proposed: (1) Establishing a 
separate part 66 for aviation maintenance personnel; (2) removing 
gender-specific terms from the original regulation; (3) changing the 
term ``mechanic'' to ``aviation maintenance technician''; (4) changing 
the term ``repairman'' to ``aviation repair specialist''; (5) 
establishing the equivalency of the aviation maintenance technician 
certificate and the aviation repair specialist certificate with current 
mechanic and repairman certificates; (6) allowing facsimiles to be used 
in the process of replacing lost or destroyed aviation maintenance 
technician and aviation repair specialist certificates; (7) requiring 
applicants to demonstrate English-language proficiency by reading and 
explaining appropriate maintenance publications and by writing defect 
and repair statements; (8) discontinuing the certification of aviation 
maintenance personnel who are employed outside the United States and 
who are not proficient in the English language; (9) requiring all 
aviation maintenance technician applicants to pass a written test that 
would examine their knowledge of all applicable maintenance 
regulations; (10) clarifying the requirement that each applicant for an 
aviation maintenance technician certificate pass all written tests 
before applying for oral and practical tests; (11) recognizing 
computer-based testing methods; (12) specifying all experience 
requirements in hours instead of months for initial certification; (13) 
establishing a basic competency requirement for aviation maintenance 
technicians; (14) allowing aviation maintenance technicians to use 
equipment-specific training as an additional means to qualify for the 
exercise of certificate

[[Page 37174]]

privileges; (15) permitting aviation maintenance instructors to use 
instructional time to satisfy currency requirements; (16) establishing 
training requirements for aviation maintenance technicians who desire 
to use their certificates for compensation or hire; (17) extending the 
duration of an inspection authorization from 1 to 2 years; and (18) 
expanding the renewal options available to the holder of an inspection 
authorization.
    After further work by the Part 65 Working Group and the rapid 
completion of the second phase of the Working Group's review of the 
certification requirements for mechanics and repairmen, the ARAC 
recommended that the FAA consolidate the proposals made in Notice 94-27 
with those proposals made by the ARAC at the completion of the second 
phase of the regulatory review. This decision was based on the ARAC's 
evaluation that the proposals made in the second phase of the Part 65 
Working Group's review of the certification requirements for aviation 
maintenance personnel would cause significant changes to the format and 
content of proposed part 66, as set forth in Notice No. 94-27, which 
proposed the changes recommended by the ARAC and the FAA after the 
completion of the first phase of the review. As a result of the 
creation of new subparts in proposed part 66 for the aviation 
maintenance technician (transport) (AMT(T)) certificate and the 
inspection authorization, the addition of a separate rating for 
aviation maintenance instructors, and the creation of an additional 
aviation repair specialist certificate, the ARAC determined that the 
general organization of part 66, as previously proposed, would be 
greatly altered.
    The FAA, in an effort to avoid confusion in the implementation of 
the final rule, agreed with the ARAC's recommendation and determined 
that the changes proposed in the earlier NPRM and the additional 
changes proposed as a result of recommendations made at the completion 
of the second phase of the regulatory review should be reconciled and 
consolidated into a single NPRM containing both sets of proposals. 
Therefore, the FAA is withdrawing the initial NPRM in a document 
published elsewhere in this separate part of the Federal Register. The 
FAA contends that the creation of part 66, as set forth in the earlier 
proposal, followed by a series of sweeping changes to implement the 
additional proposals set forth in this NPRM, would have been confusing 
to the aviation maintenance community and would have hindered the 
implementation of the changes that the Working Group has set out to 
accomplish.
    The proposals developed during both phases of the part 65 
regulatory review, and set forth in this NPRM, cover a broad range of 
issues affecting the certification of aviation maintenance personnel. 
This NPRM reconciles the proposals made in the earlier NPRM with the 
proposals made as a result of the completion of the second phase of the 
ARAC's review of the certification requirements for aviation 
maintenance personnel. As stated previously, all of the proposals in 
this NPRM have been extensively researched for the FAA by the Part 65 
Working Group, and all proposals made in this NPRM are based on the 
ARAC's recommendations.

General Discussion of the Proposal

Modification of the Previous Proposal

    A majority of the proposals developed during the first phase of the 
regulatory review and set forth in Notice No. 94-27 also have been set 
forth in this proposal. Of those 18 specific proposals previously noted 
as being set forth in the earlier NPRM, fewer than half have been 
significantly modified in this NPRM.
    Many of the discrepancies between the current proposal and the 
earlier NPRM resulted from the previous proposal to equate a mechanic 
certificate to an aviation maintenance technician (AMT) certificate. As 
a result of the completion of the second phase of this review, the FAA 
proposes the creation of AMT and AMT(T) certificates. The current 
mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings would be 
equivalent to the proposed AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft rating 
(with no loss of privileges) and not the AMT certificate, as stated in 
the earlier NPRM. The original proposal to change the term ``mechanic'' 
to ``aviation maintenance technician'' has, therefore, been modified to 
reflect the proposed change. All privileges granted to an AMT(T) with 
an aircraft rating, as set forth in this notice, would apply to the 
holder of a current mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant 
ratings. The holder of the proposed AMT certificate with an aircraft 
rating would not possess the full approval for return-to-service 
privileges of the holder of either the current mechanic certificate 
with an airframe and powerplant rating or the proposed (and equivalent) 
AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft rating.
    This proposal also would combine the current airframe and 
powerplant ratings into a single ``aircraft'' rating. The FAA would not 
issue any proposed certificates with airframe and powerplant ratings as 
stated in the previous NPRM.
    In the earlier NPRM, information pertaining to inspection 
authorizations was found solely in the subpart of proposed part 66 that 
would pertain to AMTs. The current proposal, however, would create two 
certificates (the AMT and AMT(T)), both of whose holders would be 
eligible for inspection authorization privileges. Therefore, the 
proposal would remove those sections that pertain to inspection 
authorizations from the subpart, proposed in the earlier NPRM, that was 
applicable solely to the AMT certificate and place this information in 
a separate subpart applicable to AMT and AMT(T) certificates. 
Additionally, the proposal would not permit participation in current 
inspection programs recommended by the manufacturer or other inspection 
programs established by the registered owner or operator under 14 CFR 
Sec. 91.409(f)(3) or (4), as a means of satisfying inspection 
authorization renewal requirements.
    By establishing a new type of aviation repair specialist 
certificate based on proficiency in a designated specialty area but not 
linked to employment, this proposal significantly reorganizes the 
subpart of previously proposed part 66 applicable to aviation repair 
specialists. Although Notice No. 94-27 states that a valid repairman 
certificate would be equal to an aviation repair specialist 
certificate, under the proposal contained in this notice, the current 
repairman certificate would only be equivalent to the aviation repair 
specialist certificate issued on the basis of employment (ARS-II) and 
not to the aviation repair specialist certificate issued on the basis 
of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I) (unless the FAA 
issued the current repairman certificate based on compliance with a 
recognized national standard, such as that established for 
nondestructive inspection).
    Additionally, as a result of comments received on the earlier NPRM, 
the proposal to specify practical experience requirements in hours for 
the issuance of an AMT certificate would be retained; however, the time 
interval in which recent experience requirements would be measured 
would continue to be stated in months. Also as a result of comments 
received, this proposal would propose a mandatory recurrent training 
requirement for AMTs and AMT(T)s who use their certificates for 
compensation or hire; however, this NPRM would not propose that this 
recurrent training consist of a minimum of 16 hours of recurrent 
training every

[[Page 37175]]

24 months, as stated in the previous NPRM. To afford aviation 
maintenance personnel greater latitude in the types of training that 
could be used to qualify for the exercise of certificate privileges, 
this proposal would change the more restrictive term ``equipment-
specific training,'' as set forth in the earlier proposal, to 
``appropriate training.'' The proposal also would permit training on 
the ``tasks to be performed'' to be used to qualify a person for the 
exercise of certificate privileges, rather than require training to be 
on the ``equipment on which the work is to be performed.'' Therefore, 
completion of training sufficient to permit the exercise of certificate 
privileges would not need to be conducted on the identical make and 
model of an item on which subsequent work would be performed. 
Maintenance personnel would be permitted to complete training by 
performing similar maintenance tasks on different makes and models of 
equipment. This would provide maintenance personnel with increased 
opportunities to obtain qualifying training without causing any 
decrease in safety.
    To decrease the possibility that a certificate holder would have to 
make any additional requests for a telegram or facsimile to be used as 
proof of certification after a replacement certificate has been 
requested, this NPRM also would increase the period of validity of 
telegrams and facsimiles used as proof of certification from 60 days to 
90 days.
    Additionally, the FAA has revised the certificate eligibility 
requirements relating to English-language proficiency to permit 
aviation maintenance personnel who are deaf, hard of hearing, speech 
impaired, or possess similar medical conditions, yet have a command of 
the English language, to meet certificate eligibility requirements. 
Therefore, the FAA has added a provision to the proposed certificate 
eligibility requirements that would permit an individual who has a 
demonstrated proficiency in the English language, but who may not be 
able to meet the proposed requirements because of a medical condition, 
to have limitations placed on his or her certificate that would permit 
the exercise of certificate privileges.

New Proposals Based on the Completion of the Second Phase of the 
Regulatory Review of the Certification Requirements for Mechanics and 
Repairmen

    Additional proposals developed during Phase II of the regulatory 
review and set forth in this NPRM would: (1) establish AMT and AMT(T) 
certificates; (2) establish additional training requirements for 
individuals seeking the AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft rating; (3) 
consolidate current airframe and powerplant ratings into a proposed 
aircraft rating; (4) provide for the registration of holders of AMT and 
AMT(T) certificates; (5) establish an aviation maintenance instructor 
rating; (6) permit AMTs and AMT(T)s to perform maintenance on 
horizontal card liquid-filled compasses; (7) grant inspection 
authorization privileges based on the type of certificate held by an 
individual; (8) require applicants for the inspection authorization to 
successfully complete an inspection authorization refresher course 
before application; (9) establish an aviation repair specialist 
certificate that may be issued independent of employment (ARS-I), based 
on proficiency in designated specialty areas; (10) require the holder 
of any certificate issued under proposed part 66 to notify the FAA of a 
change of address to continue to exercise the privileges of the 
certificate; (11) establish procedures for the approval of AMT(T) 
training providers; (12) permit certain aviation maintenance technician 
schools to test applicants for the AMT certificate; (13) establish 
procedures by which the Administrator would be able to grant, by 
waiver, certificates to applicants who have not met certain 
requirements of proposed part 66; and (14) replace the term ``written 
test'' with ``knowledge test''.
    The remainder of this preamble addresses the proposed changes 
resulting from both phases of the FAA's review of the certification 
requirements for mechanics and repairmen through a discussion of the 
principal issues and in a section-by-section analysis of the proposed 
rule.

Principal Issues

Establishment of a Separate Subpart for Aviation Maintenance Personnel

    Current part 65, in addition to regulating the certification 
requirements for aviation maintenance personnel, regulates the 
certification of airmen such as aircraft dispatchers, air traffic 
control tower operators, and parachute riggers, whose certification 
requirements and duties differ markedly from those of aviation 
maintenance personnel. Current industry estimates indicate that there 
are more than 145,000 certificated mechanics and repairmen. Among 
personnel certificated by the FAA, the number of certificated aviation 
maintenance personnel is second only to the number of certificated 
pilots. Aviation maintenance personnel work in all aspects of the 
aviation environment, perform tasks vastly different from those 
performed by other airmen, and are affected by training and recent 
experience requirements that are substantially more extensive than 
those affecting other airmen currently regulated by part 65. The 
aviation maintenance sector is one of the most complex sectors of the 
aviation community, and all aviation maintenance personnel must possess 
many technical skills. Therefore, the FAA proposes to establish a new 
part 66 under the title ``Certification: Aviation maintenance 
personnel.'' This new part would be created by removing subparts D 
(Mechanics) and E (Repairmen) from current part 65 and by using these 
existing subparts as the nucleus for the newly created subpart B 
(Aviation Maintenance Technicians), subpart C (Aviation Maintenance 
Technicians (Transport)), subpart D (Inspection Authorizations), and 
subpart E (Aviation Repair Specialists) under proposed part 66. The 
sections of current subpart A (General) of part 65 that apply to 
aviation maintenance personnel would be included in subpart A of 
proposed part 66.
    The addition of this new part to the FAR is warranted because of 
the proposed creation of additional certificates and ratings for 
aviation maintenance personnel, the expansion of current certification 
requirements, and the increasing complexity of the training and 
experience requirements affecting aviation maintenance personnel.

Redesignation of the Term ``Mechanic''

    Because of changes in aircraft technology, the amount of 
specialized training required to perform aviation maintenance has 
increased significantly since the introduction of the term 
``mechanic.'' The highly complex and technical field of contemporary 
aviation maintenance requires substantially more than the manual skills 
typically associated with individuals classified as ``mechanics.'' The 
FAA asserts that the term ``aviation maintenance technician'' more 
completely describes the types of skills necessary to maintain today's 
complex aircraft and more accurately reflects the level of 
professionalism found in the aviation maintenance industry. 
Additionally, adoption of the term ``aviation maintenance technician'' 
would standardize terminology throughout the aviation industry and make 
part 66 consistent with part 147 (which regulates aviation maintenance 
technician schools), aviation maintenance trade publications, and the

[[Page 37176]]

civil aviation regulations of many ICAO member states. Accordingly, the 
FAA proposes not to use the term ``mechanic'' to designate certificates 
issued under proposed part 66.

Establishment of Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certificates and 
Aviation Maintenance Technician (Transport) (AMT(T)) Certificates

    The Pilot and Aviation Maintenance Technician Blue Ribbon Panel, in 
its report titled ``Pilots and Aviation Maintenance Technicians for the 
Twenty-First Century: An Assessment of Availability and Quality,'' 
noted that current FAA certification requirements do not give aviation 
maintenance personnel the entry-level experience and skills necessary 
for work involving transport-category aircraft that employ new 
technology. The panel further noted that because of the rapid 
acceleration of technological advances, the ability of AMTs to master 
this new technology without enhanced training is becoming exceedingly 
difficult. The Blue Ribbon Panel concluded that more preparation and 
training are required to meet the higher levels of qualification that 
the aviation maintenance industry demands.
    The Blue Ribbon Panel strongly recommended that the FAA develop the 
means necessary to train aviation maintenance personnel to a level of 
expertise beyond the level currently required. The FAA agrees that this 
training must be accomplished to ensure that aviation maintenance 
personnel possess the necessary skills to maintain the sophisticated 
aircraft that are in service today.
    In recognition of the increasing complexity and integrated nature 
of the systems found in transport-category airplanes and transport-
category rotorcraft, and as a result of the Blue Ribbon Panel's and 
ARAC's recommendations, the FAA proposes the creation of the AMT 
certificate and the AMT(T) certificate.
    Under the proposal, the holder of an AMT(T) certificate with an 
aircraft rating would possess full approval for return-to-service 
privileges for all types of aircraft, including those transport-
category aircraft certificated under 14 CFR part 25 or 14 CFR part 29. 
Individuals obtaining this certificate and rating after the effective 
date of the rule would be required to complete additional training in 
those systems and procedures of critical importance to the maintenance 
of sophisticated transport-category aircraft. Holders of current 
mechanic certificates with airframe and powerplant ratings would not be 
required to obtain this additional training.
    The holder of an AMT certificate with an aircraft rating would 
possess all the privileges of the AMT(T) certificate (and the 
equivalent mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings) 
except for full approval for return-to-service privileges of aircraft 
certificated under part 25 or part 29.
    The proposal would, however, provide approval for return-to-service 
privileges, for any aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29, to 
the holder of the proposed AMT certificate under certain limited and 
specified circumstances. The proposal recognizes that an AMT may 
occasionally be called on to perform relatively uncomplicated 
maintenance on aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29. The 
holder of an AMT certificate would be permitted to approve these 
aircraft for return to service only after the performance of those 
preventive maintenance tasks specified in paragraph (c) of appendix A 
to 14 CFR part 43, or after the performance of certain tasks specified 
by the Administrator. Those additional tasks specified by the 
Administrator would be published in advisory material. These exceptions 
to permit the approval for return to service of an aircraft 
certificated under part 25 or 29 by an AMT recognize that in certain 
limited circumstances an AMT may be required to perform preventive 
maintenance (or other tasks specifically approved by the Administrator) 
on a transport-category aircraft and approve that aircraft for return 
to service. This need could arise at a remote location where an AMT(T) 
would not be available.
    An AMT would be permitted to perform maintenance and preventive 
maintenance on transport-category aircraft but would be permitted to 
approve for return to service only the airframe, or aircraft engine, 
propeller, appliance, component, or part of the aircraft. The AMT 
certificate holder would not be permitted to approve the transport-
category aircraft for return to service following the completion of 
tasks that are not specified in paragraph (c) of appendix A to part 43, 
or those tasks that have not otherwise been specified by the 
Administrator.
    In formulating this proposed rule, the ARAC and the FAA considered 
requiring certificate holders operating under 14 CFR part 121 to ensure 
that any person approving its aircraft for return to service, 
regardless of the aircraft's certification basis, possess a current and 
valid AMT(T) certificate. This restriction would not apply, however, to 
approval for return to service of an aircraft after the performance of 
those tasks specified in paragraph (c) of appendix A to part 43 or 
other tasks approved by the Administrator. The FAA solicits comments on 
including the provisions of this proposal in part 121. Based on the 
comments received, the FAA may adopt such provisions in a final rule.
    Under the proposed rule, current limitations pertaining to the 
approval of items for return to service after the completion of major 
repairs or major alterations would be retained for holders of the 
proposed AMT(T) certificate and the AMT certificate with an aircraft 
rating.
    As a result of the regulatory changes to the certification 
requirements in this portion of the proposal and in the section of this 
proposal pertaining to the issuance of aviation repair specialist 
certificates (discussed below), the proposal would result in a 
certification process that would be compatible with that recommended by 
ICAO. The proposed certificate structure also would more closely 
reflect Transport Canada's proposed technician certification structure 
and would, therefore, facilitate the implementation of the fairly 
comprehensive provisions that pertain to the reciprocal acceptance of 
maintenance actions by U.S. and Canadian entities that operate under 
the terms of the U.S.-Canadian Bilateral Airworthiness Agreement.
    Any current and valid mechanic certificate with airframe and 
powerplant ratings would be equivalent to an AMT(T) certificate with an 
aircraft rating. Therefore, any individual who possesses a mechanic 
certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings before the effective 
date of the rule would possess the same approval for return-to-service 
privileges as the holder of the proposed AMT(T) certificate with an 
aircraft rating. A valid mechanic certificate with an airframe and 
powerplant rating could be exchanged for an AMT(T) certificate with an 
aircraft rating. However, such an exchange would not be necessary 
because both certificates would continue to be recognized by the FAA 
and the privileges and limitations of the certificates would be 
identical.
    After the effective date of the rule, the FAA would cease issuing 
and no longer recognize mechanic certificates with aircraft and 
aircraft engine ratings. Mechanic certificates with these ratings have 
not been issued since 1952. Individuals who hold valid mechanic 
certificates with aircraft and aircraft engine ratings and who intend 
to exercise the privileges of the AMT(T) certificate are encouraged to 
exchange

[[Page 37177]]

these certificates for mechanic certificates with airframe and 
powerplant ratings, as specified in current Sec. 65.73(b), before the 
effective date of the rule. If these individuals exchange their 
mechanic certificates with aircraft and aircraft engine ratings for 
mechanic certificates with airframe and powerplant ratings before the 
effective date of the rule, these individuals would hold the privileges 
of the AMT(T) certificate after the effective date of the rule. After 
the effective date of the rule, a mechanic certificate with aircraft 
and aircraft engine ratings could not be exchanged for a valid mechanic 
certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings or an AMT(T) 
certificate with an aircraft rating.
    In addition, after the effective date of the rule, the FAA would 
cease issuing mechanic certificates with airframe and powerplant 
ratings. However, mechanic certificates with airframe and powerplant 
ratings issued before the effective date of the rule would continue to 
be recognized by the FAA. The proposal would not require holders of 
valid mechanic certificates with airframe and powerplant ratings to 
exchange their certificates for the proposed AMT(T) certificate. If the 
holder of a valid mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant 
ratings wished to exchange his or her certificate for an AMT(T) 
certificate after the effective date of the rule, that individual could 
do so without having to receive any additional training. In the event 
of a lost or destroyed certificate, the holder of a valid mechanic 
certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings would be issued an 
AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft rating. A mechanic, however, would 
not be precluded from completing the AMT(T) training curriculum (or 
obtaining credit for previous equivalent training).

Establishment of Additional Training Requirements for Holders of the 
Aviation Maintenance Technician (Transport) Certificate

    An essential prerequisite for an individual to obtain the proposed 
AMT(T) certificate would be the completion of an AMT(T) training 
program. Successful completion of this program would ensure that a 
person approving transport-category aircraft for return to service 
would possess the requisite level of expertise necessary to accomplish 
such tasks.
    All aviation maintenance personnel must possess a basic level of 
knowledge and skill to maintain an aircraft properly and approve that 
aircraft for return to service. Therefore, the FAA contends that the 
complexity of large transport aircraft systems and the enhanced level 
of safety required in air carrier operations, where transport-category 
aircraft are primarily used, necessitate that aviation maintenance 
personnel approving these aircraft for return to service possess 
additional specialized skills and training.
    The FAA recognizes that acquiring these skills is a time-consuming 
process and that today's mechanics often learn the requisite skills 
while working for an air carrier or repair station. However, whether a 
current mechanic has these skills cannot be readily discerned through a 
review of an individual's current certification record. The proposed 
AMT(T) certificate would ensure that all aviation maintenance personnel 
certificated after the effective date of the rule who approve 
transport-category aircraft for return to service possess these skills. 
The AMT(T) certificate also would provide the individual with a readily 
available, FAA-sanctioned recognition of a level of proficiency that 
previously could not be determined by reference to the individual's 
certificate.
    Through the creation of this certificate, operators of aircraft 
certificated under part 25 or part 29 could be assured that the holder 
of an AMT(T) certificate issued after the effective date of the rule 
possesses the requisite knowledge and skill to approve these aircraft 
for return to service. This would enable operators to employ aviation 
maintenance personnel who could more rapidly meet the needs of their 
specific operating environment without having to participate in 
extensive operator-sponsored training programs before performing 
maintenance on these aircraft. Therefore, operators would be able to 
focus their training resources on aircraft type and difference training 
rather than on primary aircraft maintenance skills for transport-
category aircraft. Aviation maintenance technician training schools 
also would be able to apply their training resources more efficiently 
and could spend more time training their students in the fundamental 
concepts and basic skills of aviation maintenance.
    Under the proposal, an applicant for an AMT(T) certificate who does 
not already possess the equivalent mechanic certificate with airframe 
and powerplant ratings would only be required to possess a current and 
valid AMT certificate and present evidence that he or she has completed 
an AMT(T) training program, administered by an approved training 
provider, that meets specific curriculum requirements. These training 
requirements would be designed to ensure that the holder of the 
certificate is competent to approve these aircraft for return to 
service.
    The proposed training requirements for the issuance of the AMT(T) 
certificate with an aircraft rating would place no burden on current 
mechanics with airframe and powerplant ratings. Currently certificated 
mechanics possess approval for return-to-service authority for aircraft 
certificated under part 25 and part 29. Any holder of a current and 
valid mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings would, 
therefore, possess the privileges of the AMT(T) certificate with the 
aircraft rating. The proposal would not require a certificate exchange, 
and the FAA would recognize a current mechanic certificate with 
airframe and powerplant ratings as being equivalent to the proposed 
AMT(T) certificate with the aircraft rating. As stated previously, if 
the holder of a valid mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant 
ratings wished to exchange the certificate for an AMT(T) certificate 
with an aircraft rating, the individual could do so after the effective 
date of the rule without having to receive any additional training.
    After the effective date of the proposed rule, individuals 
intending to obtain an AMT(T) certificate would have to possess a 
current and valid AMT certificate and attend and successfully complete 
an AMT(T) training program, given by an approved training provider, 
that consists of 573 hours of training in subjects of critical 
importance to individuals who maintain aircraft certificated under part 
25 or part 29. Training would be provided in subject areas such as 
electronics, composites, publications, safety and environmental 
concerns, structural repair, and powerplants and systems. Inclusion of 
these specific subject areas and the determination of the specific 
amount of training time that would be devoted to each individual 
subject area were specifically recommended by the ARAC after extensive 
consultations with aviation maintenance personnel, aviation maintenance 
educators, and operators of transport-category aircraft.
    The FAA, in conjunction with the ARAC and the Part 65 Working 
Group, has developed a detailed list of those individual subjects that 
it recommends should be required for inclusion in each subject area. 
The FAA has not, however, proposed that these individual subjects be 
included in the proposal, as their inclusion would require that any 
future proposal to change the subjects taught would have to be 
accomplished through rulemaking or through the grant of a petition for 
exemption. The FAA would publish, before the effective date of the

[[Page 37178]]

final rule, a detailed list, in advisory material, of those subjects to 
be taught in an AMT(T) training program. By publishing this subject 
list in advisory material, the FAA could inform AMT(T) training 
providers of those subjects that should be taught in an AMT(T) training 
program and, in response to future developments in aviation technology, 
rapidly revise the list of subjects that are taught.
    Because much of this training also can be obtained in aviation 
maintenance training programs used by certificate holders operating 
under 14 CFR part 121 or part 135, or repair stations certificated 
under 14 CFR part 145, individuals currently employed by these 
operators would be permitted to use the training gained in such 
programs to satisfy the requirements for the proposed AMT(T) 
certificate. However, these training programs would be required to meet 
the same standards as those of an AMT(T) training program administered 
by an approved training provider. The FAA contends that the flexibility 
provided by these training programs would enable the operator to tailor 
its training programs to meet current organizational maintenance 
requirements.
    To refrain from unduly penalizing individuals currently possessing 
a mechanic certificate with a single rating, the effective date of the 
final rule is proposed for 18 months after its publication. This would 
permit these individuals to acquire either the airframe or powerplant 
rating, as appropriate, and facilitate the issuance of an AMT(T) 
certificate with an aircraft rating and its associated privileges and 
limitations. An individual possessing a mechanic certificate with a 
single rating would still be permitted to exercise the current 
privileges of that individual rating and those specified under proposed 
Sec. 66.109, except as noted in proposed Sec. 66.105.
    Under the proposed rule, an individual holding a mechanic 
certificate with a single rating would be considered to hold the 
equivalent of an AMT(T) certificate limited to the privileges of the 
single rating. If the holder wished to exchange the certificate for an 
AMT(T) certificate, the AMT(T) certificate would include a specific 
endorsement limiting the certificate holder to the exercise of 
privileges identical to those of the current certificate and rating. In 
either case, the holder would not be permitted to approve for return to 
service the powerplant or propeller of any aircraft certificated under 
this chapter (or any related appliance, component, or part thereof) if 
the individual possessed only an airframe rating, or the airframe of 
any aircraft certificated under this chapter (or any related appliance, 
component, or part thereof) if the individual possessed only a 
powerplant rating. To have the limitation removed before the effective 
date of the rule, the individual would have to meet the knowledge, 
experience, and skill requirements necessary to obtain either the 
aircraft or powerplant rating, as appropriate. After the effective date 
of the rule, to have the limitation removed, the individual would have 
to receive the 573 hours of training required for the AMT(T) 
certificate. Therefore, the FAA strongly encourages anyone who holds a 
mechanic certificate with a single rating interested in obtaining an 
AMT(T) certificate without a limitation to obtain both the airframe and 
powerplant ratings before the effective date of the rule.
    Additionally, certain individuals currently enrolled in aviation 
maintenance training programs may have enrolled in these training 
programs with the intent to apply only for one rating when they apply 
for the current mechanic certificate. To give these individuals the 
opportunity to complete their intended training without the additional 
expense of training for an unwanted rating, the FAA will continue to 
issue mechanic certificates and their associated ratings until the 
effective date of the rule. After that period, the FAA will only accept 
applications for, and issue, the proposed new certificates and ratings.
    Most individuals currently enrolled in aviation maintenance 
training programs have enrolled in these programs with the intent of 
obtaining the approval for return-to-service privileges of the current 
mechanic certificate with both airframe and powerplant ratings. The FAA 
recognizes that some of these individuals may have only limited 
resources and may have enrolled in current mechanic training programs 
without notice of the proposed additional training requirements for the 
AMT(T) rating. The FAA contends that by establishing an effective date 
for the final rule as 18 months after its publication, these 
individuals would be provided with an adequate period of time to 
complete their training objectives and obtain mechanic certificates 
with airframe and powerplant ratings. Additionally, the FAA contends 
that the aviation maintenance training industry would require 18 months 
to develop adequate programs to train applicants for the AMT(T) 
certificate; therefore, a proposed effective date of 18 months after 
publication of the final rule is warranted.
    Although the holder of a current mechanic certificate with airframe 
and powerplant ratings would possess the same privileges as the holder 
of an AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft rating and could exchange 
that mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings for an 
AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft rating without having to receive 
additional training, the FAA would encourage all current mechanics to 
complete the proposed training requirements for the AMT(T) certificate 
and aircraft rating.

Creation of an Aircraft Rating To Replace Current Airframe and 
Powerplant Ratings

    In view of the integrated nature of today's aircraft and their 
associated systems, the FAA recognizes that the differences between the 
privileges and limitations conveyed by the current airframe and 
powerplant ratings are becoming less distinct. The FAA contends that 
the demands of current and future aviation technology require that 
aviation maintenance personnel have a broad-based level of knowledge. 
These demands frequently require the concurrent use of expertise 
associated with the disciplines of both airframe and powerplant 
maintenance.
    Therefore, the proposal would require an applicant for an AMT 
certificate to possess the knowledge currently required of an applicant 
for the current mechanic certificate with both airframe and powerplant 
ratings at the time the individual applies for the proposed AMT 
certificate. The FAA contends that, by establishing an aircraft rating 
encompassing both the current airframe and powerplant ratings and by 
requiring an applicant to possess the training for both disciplines at 
the time of application for an AMT certificate, aviation maintenance 
personnel will better understand the nature and interrelationship of 
aviation systems as opposed to the individual maintenance disciplines. 
Such knowledge should lead to a greater understanding of how individual 
components affect other components within an aircraft and to a 
subsequent increase in the quality of aviation maintenance.
    Similarly, an applicant for an AMT(T) certificate would be required 
to complete additional training that would encompass the disciplines of 
airframe and powerplant maintenance for transport-category aircraft and 
systems. After completion of this training, an applicant for an AMT(T) 
certificate would be awarded the AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft 
rating.
    The proposal also would provide aviation maintenance technician

[[Page 37179]]

schools with greater flexibility in developing their individual course 
curriculums. By requiring an applicant to apply for the consolidated 
aircraft rating, aviation maintenance technician schools would have the 
incentive to integrate the training requirements for each of the 
current ratings into a single consolidated program. This integration 
should result in a more productive and less costly use of the resources 
of these schools. It also should eliminate any duplication of training 
requirements found in separate airframe and powerplant rating training 
programs.
    As a result of the issuance of the aircraft rating to new 
applicants for the AMT certificate, the differentiation of tasks 
between current holders of the airframe rating or the powerplant rating 
would gradually diminish. To give the FAA the opportunity to develop 
new types of testing procedures to facilitate this change, the proposal 
would remove current regulatory language stating that the installation 
and maintenance of propellers is covered on the powerplant test and 
that an applicant for a powerplant rating must show the ability to make 
satisfactory minor repairs to, and minor alterations of, propellers. 
Although the FAA will continue to certificate applicants using these 
procedures, removing this language would permit the FAA to develop 
testing procedures that are more flexible and more appropriately suited 
to the integrated aviation maintenance environment.

Establishment of Recurrent Training Requirements for Certificated 
Aviation Maintenance Personnel

    Under current part 65, there are no specific provisions that 
require recurrent training for certificated mechanics. Current 
Secs. 121.375 and 135.433 require that an operator have a training 
program to ensure that persons performing maintenance or preventive 
maintenance functions be informed fully about procedures, techniques, 
and new equipment in use. Additionally, Sec. 145.2(a) requires that 
repair stations performing maintenance for a part 121 operator comply 
with part 121, subpart L (which includes the requirements of 
Sec. 121.375).
    In an effort to ensure that all AMTs and AMT(T)s are fully informed 
of current maintenance practices in the rapidly changing aviation 
maintenance environment, the FAA proposes the adoption of recurrent 
training requirements for AMTs and AMT(T)s who use their certificates 
for compensation or hire. The proposal would particularly benefit AMTs 
and AMT(T)s who support operations conducted under part 91 and who do 
not receive training comparable to that received by AMTs and AMT(T)s 
who support operations conducted under part 121, part 135, or 
Sec. 145.2(a). This proposal would ensure that all holders of AMT or 
AMT(T) certificates who exercise the privileges of their certificates 
for compensation or hire, and who have the sole responsibility for 
ensuring the airworthiness of the equipment on which they perform 
maintenance, meet training requirements similar to those in place for 
AMTs and AMT(T)s supporting operations under part 121, part 135, or 
Sec. 145.2(a). In addition, this proposal also would ensure that all 
AMTs and AMT(T)s who support U.S.-certificated repair stations that do 
not have maintenance and preventive maintenance training programs 
receive comparable training.
    Under the proposed rule, an AMT or AMT(T) who meets the prescribed 
work experience requirements and wishes to exercise, for compensation 
or hire, the privileges of the certificate or rating would be required 
to complete recurrent training.
    Individuals who participate in currently required maintenance and 
preventive maintenance training programs provided by a certificate 
holder would meet the proposed recurrent training requirement. 
Individuals who do not receive recurrent training through a training 
program provided by a certificate holder could use a number of methods 
to meet the proposed requirement. An AMT refresher course, inspection 
authorization refresher course, or a series of such courses that are 
appropriate to the duties of an AMT or AMT(T) and acceptable to the 
Administrator could be used to satisfy the proposed recurrent training 
requirement. The FAA notes that by including a specific reference to 
the inspection authorization refresher course, the proposal seeks to 
encourage completion of this course by an AMT or AMT(T) who does not 
hold a current inspection authorization and, thereby, enhance that 
individual's understanding of the regulations relevant to the 
inspection authorization.
    As an alternative to training provided in the form of an AMT, 
AMT(T), or inspection authorization refresher course, an AMT or AMT(T) 
who wishes to comply with the proposed recurrent training requirements 
and to exercise, for compensation or hire, the privileges of the 
certificate, may complete other training appropriate to the duties of 
an AMT or AMT(T). This training may be broad-based and would consist of 
any course, or series of courses, of instruction acceptable to the 
Administrator. A description of those additional types of courses that 
would be considered acceptable to the Administrator would be published 
in advisory material accompanying the publication of the final rule. 
For example, the completion of courses dealing with general maintenance 
practices or regulations applicable to maintenance operations would 
satisfy the intent of this proposed rule.
    The FAA recognizes that many current mechanics who support part 91 
operations, or other maintenance facilities without maintenance or 
preventive maintenance training programs in place, receive periodic 
maintenance training. For example, these mechanics may receive training 
through aviation training centers or manufacturers' courses. The 
proposed rule would permit this type of maintenance instruction to be 
credited toward completion of the proposed recurrent training 
requirement, provided the instruction is acceptable to the 
Administrator.
    The proposal also would include specific provisions applicable to 
individuals exercising the privileges of their certificates while 
employed by an operator under part 121 or part 135, or by a repair 
station performing work for an operator under part 121. Such 
individuals would be considered to meet the recurrent training 
requirements set forth in the proposed rule.
    In addition, an aviation maintenance instructor providing 
instruction for an aviation maintenance training program acceptable to 
the Administrator, or serving as the direct supervisor of individuals 
providing aviation maintenance instruction for an aviation maintenance 
training program acceptable to the Administrator, would meet the 
proposed recurrent training requirements. As a result of their position 
as aviation maintenance instructors, these individuals are continually 
exposed to current maintenance practices and often disseminate 
information about new practices, techniques, and equipment to the 
aviation maintenance community. These individuals would be considered 
fully informed about current maintenance practices.
    The FAA notes, however, that an aviation maintenance instructor 
could meet the requirements for the exercise of the privileges of the 
aircraft rating but might not be able to exercise the privileges of the 
aviation maintenance instructor rating if the instructor has provided 
less than 300 hours of instruction or served as a supervisory

[[Page 37180]]

instructor for less than 300 hours during the preceding 24 months. 
However, recent experience requirements for the aviation maintenance 
instructor rating could be met if the individual successfully completed 
an AMT refresher course (or other course of instruction acceptable to 
the Administrator and appropriate to the duties of an aviation 
maintenance instructor) or if the Administrator specifically determined 
that the individual met the standard prescribed for the issuance of the 
rating.
    Although the FAA considered establishing a requirement that 
recurrent training consist of a minimum of 16 hours every 24 months for 
AMTs and AMT(T)s supporting operations under part 91 and working for 
compensation or hire, the FAA has not proposed such action in this 
NPRM. The inclusion of a 16-hour recurrent training requirement for 
these individuals had been recommended by some participants in the Part 
65 Working Group; however, it was the general consensus of the group 
that the specific number of hours for any proposed recurrent training 
requirement should be determined at a later date. Although written 
comments were solicited from all members of the group to provide 
justification for a specific recurrent training requirement, the FAA 
did not receive written comments providing such justification.
    Currently, the FAA is engaged in a number of studies and activities 
to determine the appropriate level of recurrent training for aviation 
maintenance personnel. Specifically, the FAA is conducting an expanded 
job task analysis of those tasks performed by all aviation maintenance 
personnel to determine the appropriate focus and depth of recurrent 
training. The FAA also is analyzing accident data and airmen violations 
in which maintenance elements were a causal factor and is surveying its 
field inspectors in an effort to develop recurrent training 
requirements. The FAA also is sponsoring an ongoing study to determine 
the feasibility of forming a national training council that is composed 
of individuals, representatives of the aviation maintenance industry, 
and the FAA to determine proposed training requirements for aviation 
maintenance personnel. As a result of these efforts, the FAA is 
evaluating the appropriateness of consolidating all maintenance 
training into a single future NPRM and issuing detailed advisory 
material to provide specific guidance for the completion of training 
requirements. The FAA strongly supports the concept of recurrent 
training for aviation maintenance personnel and has proposed a 
recurrent training requirement in proposed part 66 that would establish 
a basic recurrent training for aviation maintenance personnel.
    The recurrent training required under this proposal, as set forth 
in proposed Secs. 66.65 and 66.111, encompasses more types of training 
than the types of training that may be used to satisfy the provisions 
of proposed Secs. 66.63 and 66.109 for the exercise of specific 
privileges granted to AMTs and AMT(T)s with an aircraft rating. 
``Training acceptable to the Administrator on the tasks to be 
performed,'' as set forth in proposed Secs. 66.63 and 66.109, is 
encompassed within the concept of training ``appropriate to the 
duties'' of an AMT or AMT(T), as set forth in proposed Secs. 66.65 and 
66.111, and may be used to satisfy both requirements. However, 
compliance with the proposed recurrent training requirements of 
Sec. 66.65 or Sec. 66.111 does not automatically authorize the AMT to 
perform a specific task. For example, an AMT who received maintenance 
training on a specific make and model of aircraft, which enabled the 
AMT to perform work on that specific aircraft under proposed Sec. 66.63 
or Sec. 66.109, also may credit the instruction received as satisfying 
the recurrent training requirements in proposed Sec. 66.65 or 
Sec. 66.111. The completion of a course in general maintenance 
procedures would not, however, provide the specialized level of 
training required by the proposal to permit an AMT or an AMT(T) to 
perform work on a specific make and model of aircraft. (The use of 
training to qualify for the exercise of certificate privileges is 
discussed more thoroughly below.)
    An individual who exercises the privileges of an AMT certificate or 
an AMT(T) certificate, but not for compensation or hire, would not need 
to complete the proposed recurrent training requirements. These 
individuals perform only limited work on aircraft that they own or on a 
limited range of aeronautical equipment. In such cases, knowledge of a 
broad range of current maintenance technologies is not necessarily 
required. Although the FAA encourages these personnel to attend 
recurrent training, the FAA has determined that a mandatory recurrent 
training requirement for these individuals is not currently warranted.
    The proposal also sets forth a provision that would permit an AMT 
or AMT(T) who has not met the work experience and proposed recurrent 
training requirements of the certificate within the preceding 24 months 
to exercise the privileges of the certificate (including for 
compensation or hire) by completing requalification training acceptable 
to the Administrator. A specific minimum time requirement and course 
content for requalification training has not been specified in the 
proposed regulation to provide instructors and examiners with greater 
flexibility in assisting noncurrent AMTs and AMT(T)s to achieve the 
required proficiency. To be considered acceptable to the Administrator, 
any requalification training would need to include a review of those 
regulations applicable to the maintenance, preventive maintenance, or 
alteration of aircraft under the provisions of the FAR.
    The holder also may continue to exercise all of the privileges of 
the certificate and associated ratings if the Administrator finds that 
the AMT or AMT(T) is competent to exercise those privileges. Passing an 
oral and practical test with a designated examiner (currently, a 
designated mechanic examiner (DME)) also would satisfy all recent 
experience requirements.
    In recognition of enhancements in training technology, the proposed 
rule also requires successful completion of these courses, rather than 
attendance and successful completion. Therefore, the Administrator may 
find self-study courses acceptable for fulfilling the requirements 
specified in proposed Sec. 66.65 or Sec. 66.111.
    This proposal for continued aviation maintenance training addresses 
concerns such as those expressed in recent proposals to require formal 
training for all aircraft mechanic applicants. In conjunction with the 
issuance of a final rule, the FAA will develop policy on the content 
and conduct of any AMT refresher course, AMT(T) refresher course, the 
range of training considered appropriate to the duties of an AMT or 
AMT(T), and requalification training. Any AMT refresher course or 
AMT(T) refresher course should also include a substantial review of 
those regulations pertinent to the exercise of the privileges of the 
AMT certificate or AMT(T) certificate, as appropriate.

Registration of Holders of Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) 
Certificates and Aviation Maintenance Technician (Transport) (AMT(T)) 
Certificates

    The FAA currently has no accurate means to determine the number or 
location of active aviation maintenance personnel. Without this 
demographic information, the FAA is unable to make

[[Page 37181]]

accurate assessments of the status of the current mechanic population 
or provide currently active mechanics with essential safety and 
training information.
    Based on the number of certificates issued, the FAA estimates that 
the number of certificated mechanics is second only to the number of 
certificated pilots. However, pilots (other than those of gliders or 
free balloons) are required to obtain a medical certificate issued 
under 14 CFR part 67 to exercise the privileges of their certificates. 
As a result of this process, the FAA is able to update its airman 
records effectively and make accurate assessments of the size of the 
active pilot population. Because no similar form of recurrent medical 
testing is required for current mechanics, the FAA is unable to assess 
accurately the number of active mechanics or delete deceased, inactive, 
or ineligible mechanics from its records. Therefore, any estimate of 
the current and active mechanic population is solely a matter of 
conjecture. Lack of this vital demographic information seriously 
hinders the FAA's ability to make accurate predictions of future 
industry requirements and to communicate important safety information 
to active mechanics.
    In its report, the Blue Ribbon Panel expressed its concern about 
the FAA's aviation maintenance personnel records. The panel noted that, 
although the FAA issues approximately 20,000 mechanic certificates 
annually, the FAA has no procedures to identify the current number of 
active mechanics or to obtain other necessary demographic information 
pertaining to these individuals. In view of this finding, the panel 
recommended that the FAA conduct periodic registration of mechanics to 
obtain vital information about FAA-certificated aviation maintenance 
personnel and to ensure that these individuals could be provided with 
safety and training information whenever necessary. The Part 65 Working 
Group made a similar proposal to the ARAC, which concurred with the 
recommendation.
    The FAA has accepted the ARAC and Blue Ribbon Panel 
recommendations; therefore, the FAA proposes to establish a periodic 
registration requirement for each holder of an AMT or AMT(T) 
certificate. In an effort to obtain a valid initial assessment of the 
current number of active aviation maintenance personnel, the FAA 
proposes that each AMT and AMT(T) be required to notify the FAA of his 
or her current address within 12 months after the effective date of 
this rule. The FAA contends that a 12-month period is sufficient to 
obtain a basic estimate of the current and active AMT and AMT(T) 
population and that any deviations from the estimate of the current 
population, as a result of changes to the AMT and AMT(T) population 
during the 12-month period, would be statistically insignificant. A 12-
month period also would give all current certificate holders adequate 
notice of this proposed requirement and time to comply with the 
requirement.
    After completion of this initial registration period, AMTs and 
AMT(T)s would be required to provide similar registration information 
during every subsequent 48-calendar-month period. The FAA considers 
that a 48-month continuing requirement is necessary to provide an up-
to-date record of current and active AMTs and AMT(T)s. The FAA contends 
that changes to the AMT and AMT(T) populations, which occur as a result 
of the death of certificate holders or of personnel entering inactive 
status and not complying with current change of address requirements, 
would become statistically significant after a 48-month period. To 
ensure an accurate record of the size of the AMT and AMT(T) population, 
a reassessment would be required during each consecutive 48-month 
period.
    In an effort to eliminate the repetitive submission of current 
address information to the FAA, an airman who notifies the FAA of a 
change of address, obtains an additional certificate, rating, or 
inspection authorization issued under this (or any other) part, or 
provides the FAA with current address information as a result of the 
application for an airman medical certificate during this period would 
be considered to have fulfilled the registration requirement.
    The FAA has not proposed a periodic registration requirement for 
holders of aviation repair specialist certificates because holders of 
an aviation repair specialist certificate (except experimental aircraft 
builders) cannot exercise the privileges of that certificate without 
being employed by a certificated entity. Because the FAA could obtain 
any required demographic information pertaining to the holders of 
aviation repair specialist certificates from the operator or repair 
station under which an aviation repair specialist is exercising 
privileges, the proposal would not require the submission of 
registration information from aviation repair specialists. Therefore, 
the FAA contends that requiring the registration of aviation repair 
specialists would place an unnecessary burden on these individuals.
    The responsibility for complying with the proposed registration 
requirement would rest solely on AMT and AMT(T) certificate holders. To 
simplify the proposed registration requirement for individual 
certificate holders, the FAA would only require AMT and AMT(T) 
certificate holders to provide their names and current addresses. The 
submission of any additional information would not be required, nor 
would the submission be required to be made on any specific form. To 
encourage compliance with these proposed requirements, an AMT or AMT(T) 
certificate holder who does not provide current address information to 
the FAA during the registration period would not be permitted to 
exercise the privileges of the certificate until that individual had 
complied with the proposed registration requirement.
    The FAA specifically requests comments on its proposed registration 
of AMT and AMT(T) certificate holders. Based on its analysis of 
comments received, the FAA may adjust the lengths of the proposed 
initial and recurring registration periods.

Establishment of Training as an Additional Means for Aviation 
Maintenance Personnel To Qualify for the Exercise of Certificate 
Privileges

    Through the use of training, the proposal would provide holders of 
AMT certificates and AMT(T) certificates with an additional means to 
remain qualified to approve for return to service any aircraft, 
airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part and 
to supervise the maintenance, preventive maintenance, alteration, and 
approval for return to service of these items.
    Under current Sec. 65.81, a certificated mechanic may supervise 
maintenance operations or approve and return to service an aircraft, 
appliance, or part if the certificate holder has: (1) Previously 
performed the work, (2) performed the work to the satisfaction of the 
Administrator, or (3) performed the work under the direct supervision 
of a certificated mechanic or repairman who has had previous experience 
with that specific task.
    The proposal would allow AMTs and AMT(T)s to use appropriate 
training to obtain the competency necessary to supervise these 
operations or approve an item for return to service without previously 
having performed the work that is anticipated. Through the adoption of 
appropriate training to satisfy this experience requirement, the FAA 
recognizes enhancements in aviation maintenance training, which can 
provide the AMT with technical

[[Page 37182]]

knowledge equivalent to knowledge gained in the work environment. 
However, in allowing training to replace actual work experience, the 
FAA would require an appropriate level of specificity between the 
training and the actual work to be performed or supervised. Therefore, 
the proposal would require that the training used to satisfy this 
requirement be appropriate to the equipment on which the work is to be 
performed. For example, a course of instruction detailing the 
maintenance tasks for the same make and model aircraft on which an AMT 
will perform work, or a course of instruction detailing the maintenance 
tasks for a part or appliance on which the individual will perform 
work, would satisfy the provisions of the proposed rule and permit the 
exercise of certificate privileges under proposed Sec. 66.63 or 
Sec. 66.109. Such courses may be provided by any manufacturer, 
individual, or organization whose training has been found acceptable to 
the Administrator.
    Training of a more general nature, which may be used to satisfy 
recent experience requirements as proposed in Secs. 66.65 and 66.111, 
may not be sufficiently specific to allow an AMT or AMT(T) to perform 
work on a specific aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, 
appliance, component, or part. For example, a course in the FAR that is 
applicable to maintenance procedures would not satisfy the provisions 
of proposed Sec. 66.63 or Sec. 66.109 but could be used to satisfy the 
provisions of proposed Sec. 66.65 or Sec. 66.111, respectively.
    The FAA also proposes to clarify the intent of current Sec. 65.81 
by proposing language in part 66 that would allow AMT and AMT(T) 
certificate holders who desire to exercise supervisory, return-to-
service, or approval responsibilities, to demonstrate, to the 
satisfaction of the Administrator, the ability to perform the work. The 
current regulation requires actual performance of the work.
    An additional change to the current rule would enhance the ability 
of noncurrent AMTs and AMT(T)s to meet the recent experience 
requirements to exercise the privileges of their certificates and 
ratings. The proposed rule would allow these individuals to credit the 
time they work under the supervision of a certificated AMT or AMT(T) 
toward recent experience requirements. The FAA considers that work 
performed by a certificated but noncurrent AMT or AMT(T) under such 
circumstances would provide the individual with a level of experience 
equivalent to actual performance of the work.

Use of Instructional Time by Aviation Maintenance Instructors To 
Satisfy Recent Experience Requirements

    The purpose of recent experience requirements is to ensure that all 
aviation maintenance personnel are familiar with current maintenance 
practices and the applicable FAR. The aviation maintenance instructor 
must keep abreast of current maintenance practices in a wide variety of 
disciplines to provide high-quality instruction. Aviation maintenance 
instructors perform a critical function in the aviation maintenance 
education process, and the FAA believes that the changes set forth in 
the proposed rule would recognize this importance.
    Under current Sec. 65.83, there are no provisions for allowing 
individuals involved in aviation maintenance instruction to use that 
experience for maintaining the recent experience required to exercise 
the privileges of their certificate and ratings. The FAA recognizes 
that the experience gained while providing aviation maintenance 
instruction or directly supervising other aviation maintenance 
instructors is commensurate with the experience obtained while directly 
performing aviation maintenance. The FAA already recognizes 
instructional experience for holders of an inspection authorization in 
current Sec. 65.91(c)(2). Within that section, the phrase ``actively 
engaged'' includes instructors who are exercising the privileges of 
their certificate and ratings at an aviation maintenance technician 
school certificated under part 147. Therefore, the FAA proposes to 
allow the use of instructional time to satisfy recent experience 
requirements for holders of the AMT and AMT(T) certificates.
    Under the proposed rule, the holder of an AMT or AMT(T) certificate 
with an aircraft rating could meet recent experience requirements by 
serving as an aviation maintenance instructor or by directly 
supervising other aviation maintenance instructors. The instruction 
concerned would have to be directly related to aviation maintenance and 
acceptable to the Administrator so that the time an individual spends 
providing instruction or directly supervising other instructors is 
equivalent to the experience gained while performing aviation 
maintenance tasks. For example, instructional time provided for a part 
147 aviation maintenance technician school, an approved air carrier 
maintenance training program, an approved training provider, or a 
manufacturer's training program would be acceptable and would meet the 
intent of the proposed rule.

AMT(T) Recent Experience Requirements

    Because the AMT(T) certificate would upgrade the level of 
maintenance proficiency of those individuals performing maintenance on 
aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29, or on any airframe, 
aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, or component part thereof, the 
FAA would require that all work experience necessary to meet recent 
experience requirements for retention of the privileges of this 
certificate be maintained through work performed or supervised, or 
through instruction given or supervised, on aircraft certificated under 
part 25 or part 29, or on any airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, 
appliance, component, or part thereof. The holder of an AMT(T) 
certificate who does not meet recent experience requirements on 
aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29 could exercise the more 
limited privileges of the AMT certificate if the holder complies with 
the AMT certificate's corresponding recent experience requirements.

Approval of AMT(T) Training Providers

    To ensure that applicants for the proposed AMT(T) certificate 
possess the necessary knowledge and skill to approve aircraft 
certificated under part 25 and part 29 for return to service, the FAA 
has proposed that applicants for this certificate be required to 
complete an AMT(T) training program. For this program, the proposal 
would set forth a curriculum that would be specifically geared to the 
needs of individuals performing maintenance on transport-category 
aircraft. Although the proposed curriculum would be comprehensive in 
nature, it also would be flexible enough to be modified easily to 
respond to changes in aviation maintenance practices and techniques.
    To determine the subject areas in the proposed AMT(T) training 
curriculum and the amount of training to be provided in each subject 
area, the Part 65 Working Group conducted a survey of 13 air carriers. 
The survey requested that its participants specify the depth and 
breadth of skills that aviation maintenance personnel must possess to 
perform work on transport category aircraft and approve these aircraft 
for return to service. The results of this survey were reviewed by 
aviation maintenance educators within the Part 65 Working Group and 
consolidated into the AMT(T) training curriculum proposed in this 
notice. The proposed

[[Page 37183]]

AMT(T) training curriculum would require that 573 hours of training be 
offered in the six broad subject areas of advanced electronics, 
composites, structural repair, powerplants and systems, safety and 
environmental concerns, and publications. The specific amount of 
training required in each individual subject area is specified in 
appendix A to proposed part 66.
    The basic requirements for approval of training providers 
administering this AMT(T) training program are similar to those 
specified for the approval of other training course requirements 
specified in this subchapter. In its administrative requirements, the 
program established by this proposal would correspond to other training 
courses referenced in this subchapter; however, it will differ most 
significantly from other training courses in that, under the proposal, 
the FAA may approve the provider of the training program and not 
specifically approve the training curriculum, as is currently the case 
with training programs developed to satisfy the requirements of part 
147. By approving the training provider, as opposed to the training 
program itself, the FAA contends that the training provider would have 
the necessary flexibility to modify the curriculum of the training 
program rapidly to respond to advances in aviation maintenance 
technology, while continuing to ensure that acceptable standards of 
training are met.
    To ensure that these programs meet current industry standards, the 
FAA would require that an outline of the training program be provided 
for review. In recognition of the diversity of current information 
retrieval systems, this outline could be submitted in paper or 
electronic format, or in any other format acceptable to the 
Administrator. The outline would contain information specifying those 
subject areas to be taught and the number of hours of instruction 
required. Additional subject areas also could be included.
    Facilities, equipment, and material requirements would be similar 
to those found in other course requirements specified in this 
subchapter; however, the training provider would ensure that all 
instructors in a training program meet the requisite standards of 
technical competency.
    Revisions to the training program outline would be submitted in a 
manner identical to that required for initial approval of the training 
provider. Based on the improved effectiveness of training methods, the 
FAA may permit training program revisions that would offer fewer than 
the specified number of hours of instruction in the complete training 
program or in a designated subject area. The training provider would be 
required to provide justification for such a reduction. A reduction 
would be permitted only if the quality of training provided did not 
decrease. Sufficient indicators of student participation and progress 
in the program would be required to be reported; however, if an 
approved training provider already provided this information to the FAA 
as a result of reporting requirements specified in another part, a 
duplicate submission of this information would not be required.
    The FAA notes that an aviation maintenance technician school 
certificated under part 147 also could offer a combined AMT and AMT(T) 
training program. In such a circumstance, the school would be required 
to obtain approval as an AMT(T) training provider under proposed part 
66. Instruction used to satisfy AMT course curriculum requirements also 
could be used to satisfy AMT(T) training program requirements resulting 
in a combined AMT and AMT(T) training curriculum with significantly 
fewer hours of training than required to obtain the AMT and AMT(T) 
certificates separately. Instruction used to satisfy both AMT course 
curriculum requirements and AMT(T) training program requirements would 
be specified in the training curriculum approved under part 147 for use 
by the aviation maintenance technician school. The approved training 
curriculum also would be required to meet the provisions of proposed 
appendix A to part 66.
    The proposal also would require approved training providers to 
provide each student who successfully completes the training program 
with a statement of graduation. Those students who complete only a 
portion of a training program could, upon request, receive a record of 
the training completed.
    Although the proposal would permit training providers to contract 
for services to assist in the provision of the required training, 
records of any such contracts would have to be forwarded to the FAA. 
The proposal also would reiterate that the training provider, not the 
party providing contract services, would ultimately be responsible for 
the conduct of the training program.
    The proposal would permit a training provider, other than a 
certificate holder operating under part 121 or part 135, an aviation 
maintenance technician school certificated under part 147, or a repair 
station that performs work under Sec. 145.2(a), to retain approval for 
a period of 24 months. Because the training programs of these 
certificate holders are routinely surveilled, a training provider that 
also is a certificate holder under any of these parts would retain 
approval for the duration of that certificate. However, approval may be 
canceled at any time by the FAA or, voluntarily, by the training 
provider, or as a result of change of ownership. Like other training 
courses specified in this subchapter, the proposal would require that 
applications for a training provider's renewal of approval be submitted 
60 days before the expiration of the current approval.

Performance of Repairs and Alterations by AMTs and AMT(T)s on 
Horizontal-Card Liquid-Filled Compasses

    The current rule prohibits the repair or alteration of instruments 
by mechanics. However, the aviation maintenance industry has recognized 
that aviation instruments vary significantly in complexity. A commenter 
to the short-term FAA regulatory review initiated in response to a 
recommendation from the Clinton Administration's ``Initiative To 
Promote a Strong Competitive Aviation Industry'' noted that the fairly 
simple task of replenishing magnetic compass fluid and changing the 
expansion diaphragm in a compass could be accomplished by a mechanic 
with no adverse effect on safety. The commenter stated that these 
instruments must often be sent to instrument repair shops for 
maintenance that mechanics can readily accomplish. This action 
frequently results in increased and unnecessary costs to the user and, 
for certain operators, an unwarranted loss of use of the aircraft.
    The ARAC and the FAA concur with this assessment and contend that 
an AMT or an AMT(T) can readily perform maintenance on horizontal-card 
liquid-filled compasses. Therefore, the FAA proposes that an AMT or an 
AMT(T) be permitted to perform all maintenance actions on horizontal-
card liquid-filled compasses and that the limitations of the current 
rule prohibiting the performance of repairs and alterations to these 
instruments be removed.

Establishment of an Aviation Maintenance Instructor Rating

    Under the provisions of the current rule, persons providing 
aviation maintenance instruction are not required to demonstrate any 
degree of teaching proficiency. Flight instructors certificated under 
part 61 are currently required to pass a knowledge test on the subjects 
in which instruction is required by Sec. 61.185(a). These subjects 
include: the learning process, elements of

[[Page 37184]]

effective teaching, student evaluation and testing, course development, 
lesson planning, and classroom training techniques. Ground instructors 
certificated under subpart I of part 61 also are required to show a 
practical and theoretical knowledge of the subjects for which a rating 
is sought by passing a similar knowledge test.
    Because it is necessary that the subject material taught by 
individuals providing aviation maintenance instruction be completely 
understood and adequately applied by students to the maintenance 
problems that they will eventually encounter in the aviation 
maintenance industry, the FAA, based on the ARAC's recommendation, 
proposes to create an aviation maintenance instructor rating that may 
be obtained by the holder of the AMT certificate or the AMT(T) 
certificate. The FAA contends that creation of this rating would serve 
to enhance the quality of aviation maintenance instruction that is 
provided in aviation maintenance programs. This enhancement would be 
accomplished by ensuring that aviation maintenance instructors possess 
not only technical proficiency in the subject material taught but also 
the requisite teaching competence to ensure that their students 
understand the material. Adoption of this proposal also would quantify 
and recognize the special skills required of an aviation maintenance 
educator, and would improve the images of aviation maintenance 
educators and aviation maintenance education.
    The Blue Ribbon Panel also recognized these deficiencies. In its 
report, the panel noted that the instructional standards and the 
quality of aviation maintenance instruction often are questioned. It 
also noted that there was no certification, beyond that of a current 
mechanic certificate, needed to teach in an aviation maintenance 
technician school certificated under part 147. Therefore, the Blue 
Ribbon Panel recommended that qualification, certification, and 
recurrent training requirements be established for instructors who 
teach in part 147 schools.
    Under the proposal, an applicant for an aviation maintenance 
instructor rating would be required to: hold a current and valid AMT 
certificate or a current and valid AMT(T) certificate for at least 3 
years before application; present evidence that he or she has been 
actively engaged in the maintenance of aircraft for at least the 2-year 
period before application; and pass a knowledge test on instructional 
proficiency. The proposal recognizes the widespread use of computer-
based testing in the administration of FAA examinations and, therefore, 
would require that a ``knowledge test'' rather than a ``written test'' 
be passed.
    The FAA contends that the possession of an AMT certificate or an 
AMT(T) certificate is necessary to ensure the basic technical 
proficiency of the aviation maintenance instructor. The specific time 
period proposed for the possession of either certificate and the amount 
of time that the individual would be required to have been actively 
engaged in the maintenance of aircraft also are identical to the 
eligibility requirements for the issuance of an inspection 
authorization. The FAA contends that this minimum amount of actual work 
experience is required to give the aviation maintenance instructor the 
requisite practical experience necessary to explain the application of 
aviation maintenance concepts satisfactorily.
    The proposed areas of educational theory and instructional 
techniques in which the prospective aviation maintenance instructor 
would be required to pass a knowledge test are the same areas that are 
currently tested on the fundamentals of instruction knowledge test for 
the flight instructor and ground instructor certificates. In 
recognition of other training that a prospective aviation maintenance 
instructor could receive, which would provide proficiency in 
educational theory and instructional techniques, an applicant would not 
be required to take this test if the applicant possesses a recognized 
degree in education or holds a current and valid State teaching 
certificate issued in the United States.
    Under the proposal, any person providing or supervising aviation 
maintenance instruction within 12 months after the effective date of 
the rule at an aviation maintenance technician school certificated 
under part 147 would not be required to pass a knowledge test on those 
subjects specified in proposed Sec. 66.69 to obtain the aviation 
maintenance instructor rating. To retain the ability to exercise the 
privileges of the proposed rating and maintain a high degree of 
instructional proficiency, the holder would be required to provide 300 
hours of aviation maintenance instruction or serve as the supervisor of 
aviation maintenance instructors for a period of 300 hours within the 
preceding 24 months. For aviation maintenance instructors holding an 
AMT(T) certificate, this instruction would not need to be provided in 
transport-category aircraft or their associated systems. Recent 
experience requirements also could be maintained if the individual 
completed a refresher course acceptable to the Administrator and 
appropriate to the duties of an aviation maintenance instructor or if 
the Administrator determined that the aviation maintenance instructor 
continues to meet the standards prescribed for the issuance of the 
rating.
    Current rules pertaining to the training of individuals at aviation 
maintenance technician schools certificated under part 147 require 1 
instructor for each 25 students in a shop class. Because the current 
rule already recognizes the importance of qualified instructors in 
these classes, the FAA proposes that the best qualified providers of 
aviation maintenance education be available in these classes. Proposed 
Secs. 147.23 and 147.36 would, therefore, require that these 
instructors also possess an aviation maintenance instructor rating. To 
enable instructors at these schools to acquire this rating, this 
requirement would not become effective until 12 months after the 
effective date of the rule.
    The FAA also notes that certain subjects taught at aviation 
maintenance technician schools do not require the technical knowledge 
required of instructors who possess the AMT certificate or AMT(T) 
certificate. Therefore, the proposal would not require instructors who 
teach basic subjects (such as mathematics, physics, basic electricity, 
basic hydraulics, drawing, or similar subjects) at AMT schools that are 
certificated under part 147, to obtain an AMT or AMT(T) certificate and 
aviation maintenance instructor rating.

Establishment of Basic Competency Requirements for AMT Certificate 
Holders

    Currently, Sec. 65.79, which sets forth the skill requirements for 
a mechanic certificate, requires an applicant for a mechanic 
certificate to pass an oral and practical test covering the applicant's 
basic skills in performing practical projects covered by the written 
test. Because of the complexity of current aviation maintenance 
operations, the FAA proposes to establish a broad-based competency 
requirement for AMT certificate applicants under proposed Sec. 66.59, 
which would encompass more than the skill requirements included in the 
current regulation.
    Current interpretations of the existing regulation tend to 
emphasize the evaluation of basic skills that solely involve tasks 
requiring manual dexterity. Although mastery of these basic skills is 
invaluable, the FAA asserts that a more comprehensive level of 
competency, based on current

[[Page 37185]]

aviation maintenance practices, is required of AMTs. The proposed rule 
would expand the evaluation of AMT applicants to include a 
demonstration of competency in technical tasks and aircraft maintenance 
more appropriate to the current aviation environment and the 
certificate and rating sought. Therefore, all training provided to an 
applicant for any certificate, rating, or inspection authorization 
issued under the proposed part should be conducted to a proficiency-
based standard evidenced by demonstrated competency to perform required 
tasks.

Specification of Practical Experience Requirements in Hours

    The FAA proposes that the practical experience requirements for a 
mechanic seeking airframe and powerplant ratings, currently expressed 
in Sec. 65.77 as 30 months, be expressed as the equivalent number of 
hours (5,000 hours) in proposed Sec. 66.57, for an applicant seeking 
the AMT certificate with an aircraft rating. The FAA also proposes that 
the practical experience requirements for a repairman seeking a 
certificate, currently expressed as 18 months in Sec. 65.101, be 
expressed as its hour equivalent of 3,000 hours in proposed 
Sec. 66.203, for Aviation Repair Specialist-II (ARS-II) certificate 
applicants.
    A change to the hourly experience requirements would give the FAA 
and the aviation maintenance industry a simpler method to measure and 
verify the amount of practical work experience that the individual 
applicant possesses. The proposed revision also would enable aviation 
maintenance personnel working in part-time positions to quantify their 
work experience more easily. FAA Order 8300.10, ``Airworthiness 
Inspector's Handbook,'' currently permits the practice of measuring 
part-time experience requirements in hours. The proposed rule would 
expand this current practice by measuring part-time and full-time 
experience in hours.
    The FAA, in the previous NPRM, proposed that all experience 
requirements, as stated in current Sec. 65.77; all recent experience 
requirements, as stated in current Sec. 65.83; and all eligibility 
requirements, as stated in current Sec. 65.101, be expressed in hours 
instead of months. In response to comments received detailing the 
difficulties that such a proposal would impose on the ability of part-
time aviation maintenance personnel to meet proposed recent experience 
requirements for the exercise of certificate privileges, the FAA 
proposes only that the practical experience necessary for the AMT 
certificate with the aircraft rating and the eligibility requirements 
for the ARS-II certificate be expressed in hours. Proposed recent 
experience requirements for the exercise of certificate privileges, 
however, would be expressed in months.
    As the proposed rule would eliminate the issuance of individual 
airframe and powerplant ratings, the provisions currently stated in 
Sec. 65.77(a), which require 18 months of practical experience, 
appropriate to the rating sought, with the procedures, practices, 
tools, machine tools, and equipment generally used in constructing, 
maintaining, or altering airframes or powerplants, would be eliminated 
under the proposal.

Establishment of a Requirement for Aviation Maintenance Technicians To 
Pass a Knowledge Test on All Applicable FAR

    Current regulations require an applicant for a mechanic certificate 
to pass a written test that includes the applicable provisions of part 
43 and part 91. Because contemporary maintenance operations require the 
applicant to understand certification and maintenance regulations other 
than those found solely in part 43 and part 91, the FAA proposes that 
the knowledge requirements for the AMT certificate with an aircraft 
rating require an applicant to pass a knowledge test on the applicable 
provisions of the entire chapter. The proposal recognizes the use of 
computer-based testing by replacing the term ``written test'' with 
``knowledge test''.

Clarification of Requirement To Pass All Knowledge Tests Before 
Applying for the Oral and Practical Tests

    There has been some confusion among applicants for the current 
mechanic certificate who are not enrolled at aviation maintenance 
technician schools approved under part 147 with regard to the language 
of current Sec. 65.75(b). The current section requires an individual to 
pass each section of the written test before applying for the oral and 
practical tests prescribed by Sec. 65.79. The FAA believes that it is 
essential that the applicant display knowledge of the equipment and 
procedures to be used by the applicant before the oral and practical 
tests are given. The applicant must possess adequate knowledge before 
being permitted to take the oral and practical tests because it is this 
knowledge that enables an applicant to solve practical problems and 
demonstrate the ability to perform the work of a certificated AMT. In 
addition, when taking an oral or practical test, an applicant for a 
certificate must handle complex equipment; a lack of knowledge about 
the use of that equipment could injure the applicant or others. 
Therefore, the FAA has clarified the current requirement by proposing 
language that would require all applicants for the AMT certificate, 
except students enrolled at an aviation maintenance technician school 
approved under part 147, to pass all knowledge tests before applying 
for the oral and practical tests.

Demonstration of English-Language Proficiency

    The proposal would require all applicants for an AMT certificate, 
AMT(T) certificate, or aviation repair specialist certificate to read, 
write, speak, and understand the English language.
    The current rule requires only those applicants desiring to 
exercise the privileges of current certificates within the United 
States to comply with English-language proficiency requirements. It 
does not specify an appropriate means for the applicant to demonstrate 
this proficiency nor does it provide a mechanism for the Administrator 
to issue a certificate to an individual who may not meet these English-
language proficiency requirements solely because of a medical 
condition.
    The proposal would require the applicant to demonstrate English-
language proficiency by reading and explaining appropriate maintenance 
publications and by writing defect and repair statements. This proposal 
recognizes the highly technical nature of aviation maintenance in 
today's aviation industry. Proficiency with the general terminology of 
the English language is not sufficient to ensure the competency of an 
FAA-certificated AMT or aviation repair specialist. The individual must 
be able to understand and master the complex and often very specialized 
language of airworthiness instructions and other terminology associated 
with the maintenance of highly sophisticated aviation equipment.
    In addition, the current airframe, powerplant, and general written 
tests for mechanics are administered in the English language. 
Applicants taking these tests must be proficient in the English 
language to complete these examinations successfully. Although 
currently certificated repairmen are not required to take written 
tests, these individuals also work in environments that require more 
than mere proficiency in the English language. Because the

[[Page 37186]]

FAA does not certify repairmen working under U.S.-certificated foreign 
repair stations and because of the need for all certificated repairmen 
to understand technical material written in English, the FAA proposes 
that all aviation repair specialists demonstrate proficiency in the 
English language.
    In operations conducted at certificated U.S. air carriers, 
certificated U.S. commercial operators, and U.S.-certificated repair 
stations, the vast majority of technical information is conveyed in the 
English language. The FAA has determined that the proposed rule would 
guarantee a level of competency that would ensure that an applicant for 
either certificate is able to use all relevant maintenance publications 
effectively.
    The proposal also would revise the current rule to permit the 
Administrator to issue certificates to applicants who are deaf, hard of 
hearing, speech impaired, or possess other similar medical conditions, 
yet have a demonstrated proficiency in the English language. Under the 
proposal, an applicant could be issued a certificate with specific 
limitations necessary for the safe maintenance, preventive maintenance, 
or alteration of aircraft if the applicant has a command of the English 
language, yet is unable to meet the proposed requirements solely 
because of a medical condition.
    The FAA also proposes that exceptions found in current Secs. 65.71 
and 65.101, which permit the certification of mechanics and repairmen 
who are employed outside the United States but who are not proficient 
in the English language, be deleted from the proposed rule. The FAA 
proposes the inclusion of provisions in the proposed rule that would 
permit the Administrator to waive compliance with the proposed English-
language proficiency requirement, in certain limited circumstances. The 
waiver provisions are discussed in more detail below.
    Current holders of a mechanic certificate or repairman certificate 
who do not meet the English-language requirement but who are employed 
outside the United States by a certificated U.S. air carrier or a 
certificated U.S. repair station would continue to exercise the 
privileges of their certificates without a further showing of 
competency. Their certificates would remain endorsed, ``Valid only 
outside the United States.''

Waiver of Specific Certificate Requirements

    The FAA recognizes that in certain distinct and special 
circumstances, deviations from compliance with the requirements of the 
FAR may be in the public interest. To afford the FAA with a means to 
respond rapidly to requests for deviations when such requests are in 
the public interest, the FAA proposes that certain provisions of the 
certification rules, contained in proposed part 66, be subject to 
waiver. The FAA has specifically identified two sets of circumstances 
where a waiver of the proposed certification requirements may be in the 
public interest. Therefore, the FAA proposes to include provisions in 
the proposed rule that would permit the issuance of certificates and 
ratings in deviation from the requirements of proposed Secs. 66.51(b), 
66.57, 66.201(b), and 66.203(b).
    Although the FAA has proposed that all applicants for certificates 
issued under proposed part 66 be able to read, write, speak, and 
understand English, the FAA recognizes that in certain circumstances 
the issuance of an AMT, AMT(T), or aviation repair specialist 
certificate to an individual who does not meet this requirement may be 
necessary to ensure the continued airworthiness of U.S.-registered 
aircraft operating outside the United States. Only in such limited 
instances where no FAA-certificated AMT, AMT(T), or aviation repair 
specialist who can read, write, speak, and understand English is 
available to maintain a U.S.-registered aircraft overseas, will the FAA 
consider the issuance of a certificate. Any certificate issued in 
accordance with the proposed waiver provisions would contain an 
endorsement specifying that the certificate is valid only outside the 
United States and that the certificate holder may exercise the 
privileges of the certificate only while employed by a specific 
operator or certificate holder. Such restrictive endorsements would 
preclude any expansive use of the certificate's privileges to perform 
work outside the United States.
    The FAA also recognizes that applicants for an AMT certificate may 
complete a significant portion of the required training at an aviation 
maintenance technician school certificated under part 147 but may be 
unable to complete the remaining portion of the required training. This 
situation frequently occurs as a result of the closing of an FAA-
certificated aviation maintenance technician school or the relocation 
of a student to a portion of the country where an aviation maintenance 
technician school certificated under part 147 is not readily available. 
In such circumstances, the proposal would permit the FAA to issue an 
AMT certificate in deviation from the AMT training requirements 
specified in part 147 and, therefore, recognize an equivalent 
combination of formal training and work experience. The Administrator 
would, however, require the applicant to demonstrate specifically that 
he or she has received an amount of experience equivalent to that 
required of an applicant for the proposed certificate who has completed 
the training specified in part 147 for the issuance of the AMT 
certificate.
    Issuance of any certificate under these provisions would be based 
on a demonstrated need and a finding that the applicant is able to 
safely exercise the privileges of the certificate and rating. An 
applicant also would be required to provide evidence sufficient to 
indicate that work experience used to satisfy part 147 training 
requirements that have not been completed is of equivalent scope and 
detail to ensure proficiency in those tasks specified in the training 
curriculum.

Recognition of New Testing Methods

    In the area of testing administration, the FAA recognizes recent 
developments in training and testing technology and, therefore, has 
proposed to replace the term ``written test'' with ``knowledge test''. 
Because the results of some tests, such as those from recently approved 
computer-based testing, can be made immediately available to the 
applicant, the FAA proposes that a report of the knowledge test results 
be made available, as opposed to being sent, to an applicant who has 
taken an examination using computer-based testing.

Replacement of Lost or Destroyed Certificates by Facsimile or Telegram

    The proposal would revise current procedures by permitting an 
airman who has lost a certificate issued under proposed part 66 to 
request a facsimile of the certificate from the FAA as confirmation of 
the certificate's original issuance. The proposal also would allow any 
request to the FAA to be made by facsimile and would permit the FAA to 
send directly to the airman a facsimile that the airman may carry as 
proof of the original certificate's issuance, for a period not to 
exceed 90 days. Adoption of the proposed changes would make the rule 
consistent with current practices implemented by the Airman 
Certification Branch (AVN-460) at the Aviation Standards National Field 
Office in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Current regulations specify the use 
of telegrams only and limit their validity to a 60-day period.
    The proposed use of facsimiles, in addition to telegrams, reflects 
advancements in communications

[[Page 37187]]

technology and would speed access to FAA services by permitting the use 
of other means, such as telephone facsimile or computer modem, to 
obtain a replacement certificate. The use of these means would speed 
the replacement of a lost certificate to an airman, thereby decreasing 
the time during which an airman may not exercise the privileges of a 
certificate or rating. Increasing the period of validity of telegrams 
and facsimiles used as proof of certification also would decrease the 
possibility of a certificate holder having to make any additional 
request for a replacement certificate. Similar provisions are under 
consideration for adoption in other parts of the FAR.

Extension of the Duration of an Inspection Authorization

    Under the proposed rule, the duration of an inspection 
authorization would be extended, from the current 12-month period 
ending in March of each year, to a 24-month period ending on the last 
day of the 24th month after the date of issuance of the inspection 
authorization. Extending the duration of the inspection authorization 
would make the authorization consistent with FAA practices regarding 
the issuance of other renewable certificates, such as the flight 
instructor certificate. A 24-month renewal cycle would relieve the 
public of a significant regulatory burden and FAA Flight Standards 
District Offices of a considerable administrative burden, without 
compromising safety. Modifying the existing training and recent 
experience requirements to coincide with the adoption of a 24-month 
renewal cycle would give holders greater flexibility in meeting 
regulatory requirements.

Granting of Inspection Authorization Privileges Based on the Type of 
Technician Certificate Held by an Applicant

    In view of the creation of the proposed AMT and AMT(T) 
certificates, the FAA proposes to delineate the privileges and 
limitations of the inspection authorization in a manner similar to that 
provided for by the AMT and AMT(T) certificates. Under the current 
rule, the FAR sections pertaining to the issuance of an inspection 
authorization are found in subpart B of part 65, which pertains solely 
to currently certificated mechanics. With the creation of the new 
certificates, the holder of an AMT certificate or the holder of an 
AMT(T) certificate can apply for an inspection authorization. The FAA, 
therefore, proposes to create a new subpart, solely applicable to the 
issuance of inspection authorizations to holders of either AMT or 
AMT(T) certificates. The FAA contends that the retention of the current 
regulatory structure for inspection authorization privileges and 
limitations, which is based on the possession of a single certificate, 
would be inconsistent with a certification structure that provides for 
two different types of certificates with different privileges and 
limitations.
    An inspection authorization holder's privileges would be dependent 
on the privileges of the type of certificate held by the individual 
possessing the inspection authorization. Under the proposal, the 
privileges of an individual possessing an inspection authorization and 
holding a current and valid AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft rating 
would not be any different from the privileges of the holder of an 
inspection authorization possessing a current and valid mechanic 
certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings as specified in 
current Sec. 65.95.
    An individual possessing an inspection authorization with an AMT 
certificate that has an aircraft rating, however, would not be 
permitted to approve aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29 for 
return to service after the completion of a major repair or alteration. 
This individual also would not be permitted to perform an annual 
inspection nor to perform or supervise an annual inspection on any 
aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29.
    The general eligibility requirements for an individual holding an 
AMT or AMT(T) certificate to obtain an inspection authorization would 
be the same as those specified under the current rule, with the 
exception that an individual seeking the more comprehensive privileges 
conferred on the holder of an inspection authorization with an AMT(T) 
certificate would be required to satisfy all eligibility requirements 
through the performance of work on aircraft certificated under part 25 
or part 29, or on the airframes, aircraft engines, propellers, 
appliances, components, or parts of these aircraft. An individual 
intending to obtain these inspection authorization privileges would be 
required to have been actively engaged in this type of work for 2 years 
before application for the authorization and possess a current and 
valid AMT(T) certificate for at least 3 years before application. 
Current eligibility requirements and proposed eligibility requirements 
for the issuance of an inspection authorization to the holder of a 
mechanic certificate only require that the applicant have been actively 
engaged in the maintenance of any type of aircraft for 2 years before 
the date of application and hold a current and valid mechanic 
certificate for a period of at least 3 years. Essentially, the proposal 
would require that an individual intending to exercise the approval for 
return-to-service privileges of an inspection authorization with 
respect to aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29 obtain the 
requisite experience for the inspection authorization through the 
maintenance of aircraft certificated under these parts. An AMT(T) with 
an inspection authorization who does not meet this requirement but 
meets the requirements for the holder of a AMT certificate with an 
inspection authorization would be permitted to exercise the privileges 
of the holder of an AMT certificate with an inspection authorization.
    Renewal requirements would not change under the proposed rule, with 
the exception that an individual possessing an AMT(T) certificate who 
intends to obtain an inspection authorization and exercise the complete 
range of privileges available under the authorization must perform the 
requisite inspections on aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 
29.
    Because the inspection authorization has become the subject of a 
separate subpart, references to the inspection authorization in Subpart 
A `` General have now been included in the proposed rule. Inclusion of 
references to the inspection authorization in this subpart would not 
affect any current privileges or limitations of an inspection 
authorization.

Requiring Applicants for the Inspection Authorization To Complete an 
Inspection Authorization Refresher Course Before Their Initial 
Application

    The proposal would establish a requirement that all applicants for 
an inspection authorization successfully complete an inspection 
authorization refresher course during the 12 months before application 
for an inspection authorization. The current rule does not impose this 
requirement. Current renewal options available to the holder of an 
inspection authorization permit the holder to renew the inspection 
authorization indefinitely without having attended an inspection 
authorization refresher course. Therefore, the holder of a current 
inspection authorization may have never attended an inspection 
authorization refresher course.
    FAA surveys indicate that standardization of inspection procedures 
and the proper completion and submission of required

[[Page 37188]]

documentation are consistent problems among holders of inspection 
authorizations. Successful completion of an inspection authorization 
refresher course before initial application would ensure that all 
future holders of an inspection authorization were instructed in the 
uniform interpretation of regulatory and advisory material before 
exercising the privileges of the inspection authorization.

Expansion of Inspection Authorization Renewal Options

    The proposal would permit the holder of an inspection authorization 
to use a combination of annual inspections, inspections of major 
repairs or major alterations, and complete progressive inspections to 
satisfy the renewal requirements for the inspection authorization. Such 
a provision would give the holder of an inspection authorization much 
greater flexibility in meeting renewal requirements. To facilitate the 
combination of these inspections with other inspection periods 
currently designated in months for the purpose of certificate renewal, 
the proposal would change the currently specified 90-day periods for 
inspections to 3-month periods.
    Notice No. 94-27 proposed that the holder of an inspection 
authorization be permitted to use participation in current inspection 
programs, which are recommended by the manufacturer, or other 
inspection programs established by the registered owner or operator 
under Sec. 91.409(f)(3) or (4), to satisfy renewal requirements. This 
proposal is not being included in this NPRM. Although the experience 
gained through participation in such inspection programs may be 
commensurate with the experience currently accepted to obtain the 
inspection authorization renewal, an inspection authorization is not 
required to participate in these inspection programs. The FAA deems it 
inappropriate to permit the holder of an inspection authorization to 
use participation in an inspection program that does not require an 
inspection authorization as a means (and possibly the sole means) of 
satisfying inspection authorization renewal requirements.
    Under the current regulation, the holder of an inspection 
authorization may renew the inspection authorization by attending and 
successfully completing a refresher course, acceptable to the 
Administrator, of not less than 8 hours during the 12-month period 
preceding the application for renewal. The previously published NPRM 
would permit the holder to renew an inspection authorization by 
attending and successfully completing a refresher course, or series of 
courses, acceptable to the Administrator, of not less than 16 hours 
during the proposed 24-month period preceding the application for 
renewal. The FAA considered modifying the previously published NPRM to 
permit the holder to renew the inspection authorization by successfully 
completing an 8-hour course of instruction during the expanded 24-month 
renewal period. Comments made on this proposal by the ARAC on air 
carrier/general aviation maintenance issues, however, indicated that 
acceptance of this change would effectively halve the amount of 
recurrent training that the holder of an inspection authorization would 
receive when renewing the inspection authorization through the use of 
this option. After reviewing the ARAC's concerns, the FAA has 
determined that completion of a 16-hour inspection authorization 
refresher course, or series of courses, acceptable to the 
Administrator, during the expanded renewal period is necessary to 
provide a level of recurrent training equivalent to that currently 
required of individuals seeking to renew an inspection authorization 
through the use of this training option. Therefore, this NPRM retains 
the language of the earlier proposal.

Redesignation of the Term ``Repairman''

    In view of the specialized nature of aviation maintenance tasks 
performed by currently certificated repairmen, the FAA proposes that 
the term ``aviation repair specialist'' replace the term ``repairman''. 
The FAA contends that the term ``aviation repair specialist'' more 
accurately reflects the level of expertise required to maintain today's 
highly complex aviation systems. In addition, the use of the term 
``aviation repair specialist'' would serve to increase the level of 
professionalism among aviation maintenance personnel. Adoption of the 
term would also be consistent with the FAA's policy of implementing 
gender-neutral regulations. The term ``aviation repair specialist'' 
would be used to describe the three types of aviation repair specialist 
certificates that could be issued under the proposal: (1) the aviation 
repair specialist certificate issued on the basis of proficiency in a 
designated specialty area (ARS-I), (2) the aviation repair specialist 
certificate issued on the basis of employment (ARS-II), and (3) the 
aviation repair specialist certificate issued to experimental aircraft 
builders (ARS-III).
    The aviation repair specialist certificate issued on the basis of 
employment (ARS-II) would be the equivalent of the current repairman 
certificate, and the aviation repair specialist certificate issued to 
experimental aircraft builders (ARS-III) would be the equivalent of the 
current repairman certificate-experimental aircraft builder.
    The aviation repair specialist certificate would not be issued to 
holders of the AMT or AMT(T) certificate because an AMT or AMT(T) 
certificate holder does not require an aviation repair specialist 
certificate to exercise approval for return-to-service authority. 
However, the AMT or AMT(T) may still require additional training to 
obtain the necessary competency to perform work on certain items and to 
approve these items for return to service. Completion of training 
equivalent to that required for the issuance of an aviation repair 
specialist certificate in a designated specialty area (ARS-I) would 
provide an AMT or AMT(T) with the qualifications necessary to perform 
work in that specialty area and would also serve as an indication that 
an AMT or AMT(T) possesses the qualifications necessary to exercise 
approval for return-to-service privileges in the specialty area.

Establishment of an Aviation Repair Specialist Certificate Based on 
Proficiency in Designated Specialty Areas That May Be Issued 
Independent of Employment

    Currently, an applicant for a repairman certificate (with the 
exception of those issued to experimental aircraft builders) is 
required to possess the ability to perform the specific task for which 
he or she is employed and to obtain the recommendation of the 
certificated repair station, commercial operator, or air carrier by 
which that individual is employed. A repairman is not currently 
required to meet any uniform national standard for the specific 
discipline in which the individual performs work.
    Extensive study by the Part 65 Working Group has indicated that the 
increasingly complex nature of aviation maintenance requires that an 
individual who performs work in certain specialized and highly 
technical areas should meet formal standardized qualifications. The 
ARAC concurred with the findings of the Part 65 Working Group in this 
matter and has made this recommendation to the FAA. The FAA accepts the 
ARAC recommendation and proposes to issue an aviation repair specialist 
certificate based on proficiency in designated specialty areas. The 
qualifications for the issuance of this proposed certificate would be 
based on nationally and

[[Page 37189]]

internationally recognized standards (developed by the aviation 
maintenance industry) that the FAA considers essential for the 
performance of work in a highly specialized area. The FAA currently 
proposes to issue aviation repair specialist certificates with ratings 
based on proficiency in the areas of nondestructive inspection (NDI), 
composite structure repair, metal structure repair, and aircraft 
electronics. Although the FAA has defined a number of specialty areas, 
additional specialty areas are under consideration (such as glider and 
hot air balloon repair), and new and previously unknown disciplines 
also may emerge as specialty areas as technology advances. Therefore, 
additional certificates and ratings, issued by the Administrator, that 
recognize proficiency in these areas may be established later.
    As a result of meeting these established qualifications, the 
proposal would permit the holder of an aviation repair specialist 
certificate issued on the basis of proficiency in a designated 
specialty area (ARS-I) to retain the certificate independent of 
employment by a certificated repair station, commercial operator, or 
air carrier. However, an individual intending to exercise the 
privileges of the proposed ARS-I certificate would only be permitted to 
perform those tasks for which the individual is certificated while 
employed by a certificated repair station, commercial operator, or air 
carrier, because approval for return-to-service authority would 
continue to rest with the employer, not the ARS-I certificate holder.
    The proposed certificate would be issued directly to the applicant 
and would not be held by an aviation maintenance organization, as is 
the practice with the current repairman certificate. Therefore, the 
individual could leave the employment of any of these organizations and 
retain the certificate. However, the individual would not be able to 
exercise the privileges of the certificate until he or she had obtained 
a position with another certificated repair station, commercial 
operator, or air carrier. Accordingly, an ARS-I who is an independent 
contractor to a certificated repair station, commercial operator, or 
air carrier would not be permitted to exercise the privileges of the 
certificate.
    Because the holder of the proposed certificate would have 
demonstrated a recognized level of proficiency to obtain the proposed 
certificate, the FAA contends that it would be unnecessary for the 
applicant to reapply for the certificate every time the individual 
changes his or her place of employment. Therefore, the certificate 
would remain valid until surrendered, suspended, or revoked.
    The proposed ARS-I certificate would require the completion of an 
approved training course or program in the specialty area sought. This 
training and certification would ensure the technical competency of the 
individual. It would no longer be necessary for an employer to 
recommend an individual to perform work similar to that performed for a 
previous employer. An individual would obtain this new certificate by 
submitting evidence, acceptable to the Administrator, that demonstrates 
satisfactory completion of an approved aviation repair specialist 
training course for a rating in a designated specialty area or, before 
12 months after the effective date of the rule, evidence of the ability 
to perform those tasks appropriate to the certificate and rating 
sought. Evidence of the ability to perform tasks appropriate to the 
rating sought could consist of a current repairman certificate with a 
rating that requires an applicant to possess a level of competency 
equivalent to that required for the issuance of an ARS-I certificate in 
one of the designated specialty areas (e.g., a repairman certificate 
with an NDI rating). However, the holder of a repairman certificate who 
provides evidence of competency in a specific area of technical 
expertise that is not equivalent to that required for an ARS-I 
certificate in a designated specialty area would need to provide 
additional evidence to indicate competency in the designated area. The 
FAA also notes that an individual possessing a mechanic certificate 
with an airframe rating would not need to apply for an ARS-I 
certificate as the privileges of the aviation repair specialist 
certificate would be encompassed in the privileges of the current 
mechanic certificate.
    To ensure that an ARS-I certificate holder remains qualified to 
perform the tasks appropriate to the designated specialty area in a 
rapidly changing aviation maintenance environment, the proposal would 
require the holder to meet the current qualifications and proficiency 
requirements for the issuance of the certificate and rating in the 
designated specialty area. This requirement would be met through 
training to a proficiency-based standard evidenced by demonstrated 
competency to perform required tasks, and not through completion of a 
specified number of hours of training. The holder of both the ARS-I 
certificate and the ARS-II certificate also would be afforded the 
opportunity to meet this requirement through participation in training 
programs administered by the part 145 repair station, commercial 
operator, or air carrier by which the individual is employed. Because 
the proposed ARS-I certificate would be issued directly to an 
applicant, the proposal also would revise those general provisions of 
subpart A to include the appropriate references to this new 
certificate.
    Although the FAA considered establishing a certification structure 
that would have eliminated the issuance of specialized certificates, 
the FAA contends that a certification structure that includes aviation 
repair specialist certificates is more appropriate. The FAA contends 
that the complex nature of current aviation maintenance technology 
requires the retention and training of individuals who are highly 
trained in technical specialties of a narrow scope. The retention of 
such highly trained individuals ensures the highest level of safety in 
the maintenance of complex components. The implementation of the 
proposed certification structure also ensures the continued existence 
of aviation maintenance personnel who have a more broad-based level of 
technical expertise and are able to assess the integrity of the various 
systems and components within an aircraft and approve an aircraft for 
return to service (AMT and AMT(T)). It also ensures the continued 
existence of aviation maintenance personnel trained in highly 
specialized areas of aviation maintenance (ARS-I, ARS-II, ARS-III). A 
certification structure containing a generalized certificate with 
approval for return-to-service privileges and a certificate indicative 
of proficiency in the more technical areas of aviation maintenance has 
been retained.

Notification of Change of Address for the Continued Exercise of 
Certificate Privileges

    Current Sec. 65.21 requires mechanics and repairmen to notify the 
FAA of a change of permanent address within 30 days. Although the 
current rule requires that an airman issued a certificate under this 
part provide such a notification, the airman may, under the current 
rule, continue to exercise the privileges of the certificate even if he 
or she fails to make the notification.
    Pilots, like other individuals issued certificates under this part, 
also are required to notify the FAA of a change of their permanent 
address within 30 days. However, pilots may not continue to exercise 
the privileges of the certificate if they fail to comply with existing 
notification requirements.

[[Page 37190]]

    Recent FAA experience in using current address information records 
to provide information of concern to mechanics has indicated that 
current FAA records are inadequate to locate a significant percentage 
of certificate holders. Many of the notices sent to aviation 
maintenance personnel were returned to the FAA and were marked as being 
undeliverable. Because the FAA may periodically need to disseminate 
critical safety information rapidly to all aviation maintenance 
personnel, it is extremely important that the FAA have current address 
information for all certificate holders.
    The FAA contends that current efforts to increase the level of 
professionalism in the aviation maintenance industry and to ensure that 
the FAA can rapidly notify aviation maintenance personnel of important 
safety-related matters warrant including in the proposal a provision 
that would prohibit the holder of any certificate issued under this 
part from exercising the privileges of the certificate if its holder 
did not comply with current notification requirements upon a change of 
permanent address. The FAA contends that, by withdrawing certificate 
privileges from a person who fails to comply with this requirement, a 
holder of a certificate issued under this part will be more diligent in 
complying with the essential requirement of notifying the FAA of his or 
her current address.

Testing of AMT Applicants by Designated Aviation Maintenance Technician 
Schools

    Under the provisions of current Sec. 61.71(b), the FAA permits 
certain pilot schools certificated under part 141 to test pilot 
applicants on the aeronautical knowledge and skill required to obtain 
certificates issued under part 61 without further testing by an FAA or 
FAA-designated pilot examiner. The FAA proposes to enact similar 
provisions for the testing of aviation maintenance personnel.
    The proposal would permit an individual who has passed all 
applicable knowledge tests in the prescribed period and who has applied 
for an AMT certificate within 90 days after graduation from certain 
aviation maintenance technician schools to be considered as meeting the 
specific experience and competency requirements for the certificate, 
without further testing. Only those aviation maintenance technician 
schools certificated under part 147 and specifically authorized by the 
Administrator to test applicants on the experience and competency 
requirements for the AMT certificate would be able to conduct the 
testing necessary to satisfy the requirements of the proposal.
    The proposal would provide applicants for an AMT certificate with 
an additional means to complete the required testing for the 
certificate. It also would expedite the certification process for 
qualified AMT applicants and reduce testing costs for the applicant.
    In its review of the certification requirements for aviation 
maintenance personnel, the FAA also considered permitting graduates of 
certain aviation maintenance schools approved by Transport Canada to 
use training received at those schools toward completion of the 
training requirements for the issuance of an AMT certificate. The FAA 
has not included this proposal in this notice; however, the FAA 
contends that such a proposal could be readily implemented after the 
conclusion of a Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA) with Canada.
    The FAA specifically solicits comments on including provisions in 
proposed part 66 that would permit graduates of certain aviation 
maintenance schools approved by Transport Canada to use training 
received at those schools toward completion of the training 
requirements for the issuance of an AMT certificate. Based on the 
comments received, the FAA may adopt such provisions in a final rule.

Removal of Gender-Specific Terms

    In accordance with the FAA's policy of implementing gender-neutral 
regulations and maintaining conformity with other recently revised 
certification regulations that are now gender neutral and in view of 
the increased role of women in the aviation maintenance profession, the 
FAA proposes to eliminate all gender-specific references that apply to 
aviation maintenance personnel from proposed part 66. These changes are 
reflected in the proposed amendment; however, specific changes are not 
listed in the section-by-section analysis.

Editorial Changes

    To promote consistency between this proposed rule and the 
terminology used in current regulations, the proposal requires a number 
of editorial changes. Such changes include, but are not limited to, the 
use of the term ``airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, 
component, or part'' in those instances where the term ``related 
appliance or part'' is used; inclusion of the terms ``certificate,'' 
``rating,'' or ``authorization'' where one or more terms have been 
inadvertently omitted; and a more expansive use of the term ``person.'' 
These changes are noted in the section-by-section analysis and do not 
affect the substantive provisions of the proposed rule unless 
specifically noted.

Section-by-Section Analysis

Part 65 Certification: Air Traffic Control Tower Operators, Aircraft 
Dispatchers, and Parachute Riggers

    Under the proposal, the title of part 65 would be amended to 
reflect the removal of subpart D (Mechanics) and subpart E (Repairmen) 
from this part. The proposed title of part 65 would specifically list 
only those airmen whose certification would continue to be regulated by 
this part. The current title of part 65 would be changed from 
``Certification: Airmen Other Than Flight Crewmembers'' to 
``Certification: Air-Traffic Control Tower Operators, Aircraft 
Dispatchers, and Parachute Riggers.''

Section 65.1  Applicability

    Section 65.1 currently states that part 65 is applicable to air 
traffic control tower operators, aircraft dispatchers, mechanics, 
repairmen, and parachute riggers. Under the proposal, the certification 
of all aviation maintenance personnel would be regulated by part 66. 
The proposal would revise Sec. 65.1 by limiting the applicability of 
this part to air traffic control tower operators, aircraft dispatchers, 
and parachute riggers.

Section 65.3  [Reserved]

    Section 65.3 prescribes the certification requirements for foreign 
mechanics. Because the proposal would place the certification of 
aviation maintenance personnel under part 66, this section would be 
removed from part 65 and reserved. An equivalent section, Sec. 66.3, is 
proposed for inclusion in proposed part 66.

Section 65.11  Application and Issue

    Current Sec. 65.11(c) prohibits a person whose mechanic certificate 
is suspended to apply for any rating to be added to that certificate 
during the period of suspension, and current Sec. 65.11(d)(2) prohibits 
a person whose repairman or mechanic certificate is revoked from 
applying for either kind of certificate for 1 year after the date of 
revocation, unless the order of revocation provides otherwise. Because 
the proposal would place the certification of all aviation maintenance 
personnel under proposed part 66, that portion of Sec. 65.11(c) that 
refers to the suspension of mechanic certificates and Sec. 65.11(d)(2) 
in its entirety would be

[[Page 37191]]

removed from part 65. The provisions of these paragraphs would be 
included in proposed Sec. 66.5 (c) and (d).

Section 65.15 Duration of Certificates

    Proposed Sec. 65.15 would remove the reference to the repairman 
certificate found in current paragraph (a). As the provisions of 
current paragraph (b) apply only to the repairman certificate, this 
paragraph also would be removed. Its provisions would be found in 
proposed Sec. 66.9. The remaining provisions of current paragraphs (a) 
and (c) would be retained in proposed paragraphs (a) and (b).

Part 65, Subpart D and Subpart E, Secs. 65.71 Through 65.105 [Reserved]

    The proposal would completely remove subpart D (Mechanics), 
consisting of Secs. 65.71 through 65.95, and subpart E (Repairmen), 
consisting of Secs. 65.101 through 65.105, from part 65 and would 
establish subpart B (Aviation Maintenance Technicians), subpart C 
(Aviation Maintenance Technicians (Transport)), subpart D (Inspection 
Authorizations), and subpart E (Aviation Repair Specialists) under part 
66. The new subparts would be based on the subparts currently found in 
part 65.

Part 66 Certification: Aviation Maintenance Personnel

    Under the proposal, a new part 66 prescribing the certification 
requirements solely for aviation maintenance personnel would be 
created. Part 66 would include subpart A (General), subpart B (Aviation 
Maintenance Technicians), subpart C (Aviation Maintenance Technicians 
(Transport)), subpart D (Inspection Authorizations), and subpart E 
(Aviation Repair Specialists). Proposed subpart A (General) would be 
based on part 65, subpart A, and modified to address regulatory 
concerns applicable to AMTs, AMT(T)s, and aviation repair specialists. 
Proposed subparts B, C, and D would be based on part 65, subpart D; and 
proposed subpart E would be based on part 65, subpart E. The proposal 
would establish the new part under the title ``Certification: Aviation 
Maintenance Personnel.''

Section 66.1  Applicability

    Proposed Sec. 66.1 sets forth the applicability of part 66. This 
proposed section is based on current Sec. 65.1. This section would 
limit the applicability of this new part to AMTs, AMT(T)s, holders of 
inspection authorizations, and aviation repair specialists.

Section 66.3  Certification of Foreign Aviation Maintenance Personnel

    Proposed Sec. 66.3 prescribes the certification requirements for 
foreign AMTs and AMT(T)s. Because the proposal would not preclude 
foreign individuals from obtaining these proposed certificates, this 
section would refer to both subpart B and subpart C, the proposed 
subparts that list the certification requirements for these 
certificates. The proposed section is based on current Sec. 65.3. There 
are no substantive differences between proposed Sec. 66.3 and current 
Sec. 65.3.

Section 66.5  Application and Issue

    Proposed Sec. 66.5 prescribes the application and issuance 
procedures for a certificate and ratings under this part. This proposed 
section is based on current Sec. 65.11. There are no substantive 
differences between paragraphs (a) and (b) of the proposed section and 
current Sec. 65.11, except for the inclusion of a reference to the 
inspection authorization and the replacement of the term ``written 
test'' with ``knowledge test'' in proposed paragraph (a). Proposed 
paragraphs (c) and (d) would differ from current Sec. 65.11 (c) and (d) 
by the removal of references to air traffic control tower operators, 
aircraft dispatchers, and parachute riggers, and the inclusion of 
references to AMTs, AMT(T)s, and aviation repair specialists. Paragraph 
(c) of the proposed rule would include a reference to aviation repair 
specialists because the proposed ARS-I certificate, unlike the current 
repairman certificate, would be issued with ratings based on 
proficiency in designated specialty areas.

Section 66.7  Temporary Certificate

    Proposed Sec. 66.7 is based on current Sec. 65.13 and refers to the 
issuance of temporary certificates. This section would be revised to 
reflect current practices by indicating that an applicant's 
qualifications, and not merely the application and supplementary 
documents submitted by the applicant, would be subject to review.

Section 66.9  Duration of Certificates

    Proposed Sec. 66.9 is based on current Sec. 65.15 and establishes 
the duration of certificates issued under this part. Paragraph (a) of 
proposed Sec. 66.9 would include the proposed AMT certificate, AMT(T) 
certificate, aviation repair specialist certificate issued on the basis 
of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I), and aviation 
repair specialist certificate issued to an experimental aircraft 
builder (ARS-III) among those certificates that are effective until 
surrendered, suspended, or revoked. The proposed rule corrects an 
earlier omission by including aviation repair specialist certificates 
issued to experimental aircraft builders (ARS-III) among those 
certificates that are effective until surrendered, suspended, or 
revoked. Proposed paragraph (b) does not change the intent of current 
Sec. 65.15(b) and would state that an aviation repair specialist 
certificate issued on the basis of employment (ARS-II) remains 
effective until the holder is relieved from the duties for which the 
holder was employed and certificated. Proposed paragraph (c) retains 
the current requirement for a holder to return to the Administrator a 
certificate that has been suspended, revoked, or is no longer 
effective.

Section 66.11  Display of Certificate

    Proposed Sec. 66.11 is based on current Secs. 65.89 and 65.105, 
which prescribe the display of mechanic and repairman certificates. The 
proposal would consolidate the certificate display requirements for all 
certificates under one section within part 66. There would be no 
substantive changes to current certificate display requirements.

Section 66.13  Change of Name: Replacement of Lost or Destroyed 
Certificate

    Proposed Sec. 66.13 is based on current Sec. 65.16 and would revise 
current procedures by permitting an airman who has lost a certificate 
issued under part 66 to request a facsimile of the certificate from the 
FAA as confirmation of the certificate's original issuance. This 
proposed section also would allow any request to the FAA to be made by 
facsimile and would permit the FAA to send directly to the airman a 
telegram or facsimile that may be carried by the airman, for a period 
not to exceed 90 days, as proof of the original certificate's issuance.

Section 66.15  Change of Address

    Proposed Sec. 66.15 is based on current Sec. 65.21 and would revise 
current requirements by prohibiting the holder of any certificate 
issued under this part from exercising the privileges of the 
certificate if the holder has not notified the FAA of a change in 
permanent mailing address within 30 days.

Section 66.17  Periodic Registration

    Proposed Sec. 66.17 would require that the holder of an AMT 
certificate or AMT(T) certificate notify the FAA of his or her current 
mailing address before the last day of the 12th calendar month after 
the effective date of the rule and

[[Page 37192]]

before the last day of each 48-calendar-month period thereafter.
    The proposal would not require these certificate holders to comply 
with this requirement if the holder has, within the same 12- or 48-
calendar-month period for which a notification was required, provided 
this information to the FAA through the issuance of a certificate, 
rating, inspection authorization, or airman medical certificate, or 
through compliance with proposed Sec. 66.13 or Sec. 66.15. Any 
certificate holder failing to comply with this requirement would be 
prohibited from exercising the privileges of the certificate until the 
required notification had been made.

Section 66.19  Applications, Certificates, Logbooks, Reports, and 
Records: Falsification, Reproduction, or Alternation; Section 66.21  
Tests: General Procedure; Section 66.23 Knowledge Tests: Cheating or 
Other Unauthorized Conduct; Section 66.25 Retesting After Failure; 
Section 66.27 Offenses Involving Alcohol or Drugs; and Section 66.29 
Refusal To Submit to a Drug or Alcohol Test

    Proposed Secs. 66.19, 66.21, 66.23, 66.25, 66.27, and 66.29 are 
based on current Secs. 65.20, 65.17, 65.18, 65.19, 65.12, and 65.23, 
respectively. These sections refer to the falsification, reproduction, 
or alteration of documents; general test procedures; cheating or other 
unauthorized conduct on knowledge tests; retesting after failure; 
offenses involving alcohol or drugs; and the refusal to submit to a 
drug or alcohol test. The only substantive difference between the 
proposed sections for part 66 and current corresponding sections in 
part 65 is the inclusion of specific provisions indicating the 
applicability of these sections to holders of inspection authorizations 
and the replacement of the term ``written test'' with ``knowledge 
test'' in proposed Secs. 66.23 and 66.25.

Section 66.31  Waivers: Policy and Procedures

    Proposed Sec. 66.31 would describe the policy and procedures that 
would govern the issuance of certificates and ratings in deviation from 
the airman certification rules set forth in proposed Secs. 66.51(b), 
66.57, 66.201(b), and 66.203(b). The proposed section would indicate 
that the Administrator may issue certificates and ratings in deviation 
from these sections if the Administrator finds that the holder can 
safely exercise the privileges of the certificate and rating. Requests 
for issuance of a certificate or rating in accordance with this section 
would be required to be submitted to the FAA National Headquarters, 
Flight Standards Service.

Part 66, Subpart B  Aviation Maintenance Technicians

    The structure of part 66, subpart B, is based on the current 
structure of part 65, subpart D. Under the proposed rule, the title of 
part 66, subpart B, would be ``Aviation Maintenance Technicians.''

Section 66.51  Eligibility Requirements: General

    Proposed Sec. 66.51 is based on the current Sec. 65.71. The 
language of proposed paragraph (b) differs from current Sec. 65.71 by 
not only requiring an applicant for an AMT certificate to read, write, 
speak, and understand the English language, as is currently required, 
but also by requiring the applicant to demonstrate this knowledge by 
reading and explaining appropriate maintenance publications and by 
writing defect and repair statements. The proposal also differs from 
the current section in that it would include a provision for the 
Administrator to place such limitations on an applicant's certificate 
as are necessary for the safe maintenance, preventive maintenance, or 
alteration of aircraft if the applicant is unable to meet any of these 
requirements because of medical reasons. The proposal also would 
eliminate the issuance of certificates to individuals who cannot meet 
these requirements and are employed solely outside the United States by 
a U.S. air carrier.
    The proposal would retain current requirements to pass all required 
tests within 24 months and to comply with any additional eligibility 
requirements for any rating sought.

Section 66.53  Ratings

    Proposed Sec. 66.53 would establish that aircraft and aviation 
maintenance instructor ratings would be issued under subpart B.

Section 66.55  Aircraft Rating: Knowledge Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.55 would establish the knowledge requirements for 
the aircraft rating. This proposed section is based on the knowledge 
requirements for the mechanic certificate found in current Sec. 65.75. 
The proposal would revise these current knowledge requirements by not 
only including the current requirement that the applicant be tested on 
the applicable provisions of parts 43 and 91 but by requiring the 
applicant to pass a knowledge test that includes material on all 
relevant provisions of this chapter, therefore, expanding the knowledge 
required of an applicant.
    The proposal also would require the applicant to pass all knowledge 
tests (as opposed to each section) before applying for the oral and 
practical tests for the rating sought unless the applicant was enrolled 
in certain aviation maintenance technician schools.
    Because of the increased use of computer-based testing, the 
proposal would state that a report of the knowledge test results will 
be made available to the applicant upon completion of the test. Current 
rules pertaining to the testing of mechanic certificate applicants 
require the FAA to send the applicant a report of the test.

Section 66.57  Aircraft Rating: Experience Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.57 would establish the necessary experience 
requirements for the issuance of an AMT certificate with an aircraft 
rating. The experience requirements for the AMT certificate with an 
aircraft rating would be similar to those found in current Sec. 65.77 
for the mechanic certificate with an airframe and powerplant rating.
    The proposal would permit an applicant to present either an 
appropriate graduation certificate or a certificate of completion from 
a certificated aviation maintenance technician school to show 
compliance with the necessary experience requirements. For those 
applicants seeking to meet AMT experience requirements through 
practical experience, the proposal would change the current 30 months 
of experience required of applicants for a mechanic certificate with 
airframe and powerplant ratings to 5,000 hours for applicants for an 
AMT certificate with an aircraft rating. The approximate full-time 
equivalent of 30 months is 5,000 hours. Because separate airframe and 
powerplant ratings will not be issued under an AMT certificate, the 18-
month experience requirement pertaining to applicants for a separate 
rating, which is found in current Sec. 65.77(a), has not been included 
in the proposed section.

Section 66.59  Aircraft Rating: Competency Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.59 would establish the competency requirements for 
applicants attempting to obtain an AMT certificate with an aircraft 
rating under this part. This proposed section is based on current 
Sec. 65.79. The proposal would establish a basic competency requirement 
for an AMT by requiring the applicant to demonstrate competence in 
performing tasks

[[Page 37193]]

appropriate to the rating sought. The proposal also would clarify the 
existing regulation to ensure that an applicant passed both an oral and 
a practical test appropriate to the rating sought.

Section 66.61  Certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician School 
Students

    Proposed Sec. 66.61 is based on current Sec. 65.80 and would 
prescribe the specific requirements for testing students at aviation 
maintenance technician schools. Proposed paragraph (a) is based on the 
current section with no substantive differences. Proposed paragraph (b) 
would permit applicants who have successfully completed all applicable 
knowledge tests and who apply for an AMT certificate with an aircraft 
rating within 90 days after graduation from certain part 147 aviation 
maintenance technician schools (which have been specifically authorized 
by the Administrator to test the applicants on the applicable 
competency requirements) to be considered as meeting all applicable 
knowledge, experience, and competency requirements.

Section 66.63  Aircraft Rating: Privileges and Limitations

    Proposed Sec. 66.63, based on current Secs. 65.81, 65.85, and 65.87 
would define the privileges and limitations of an AMT certificate 
holder with an aircraft rating. Proposed paragraphs (a) and (b) are 
based on current Sec. 65.81; however, the proposal would clarify and 
expand the manner in which an AMT may become qualified to supervise the 
maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of any aircraft, or 
approve for return to service any aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, 
propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof. In addition to those 
means specified in current Sec. 65.81 for mechanics, the proposal would 
provide the holder of an AMT certificate and aircraft rating with an 
additional means to qualify for the exercise of these privileges. The 
holder of an AMT certificate would be permitted to exercise the 
privileges mentioned above if the AMT had received training on the 
tasks to be performed or had previously performed such work under the 
direct supervision of an appropriately rated certificate holder who 
also had received appropriate training on the tasks to be performed.
    Additionally, the proposal would clarify the intent of current 
Sec. 65.81 by permitting the holder of an AMT certificate with an 
aircraft rating to exercise the privileges of the certificate and 
rating by demonstrating the ability to perform the work to the 
satisfaction of the Administrator. The current regulation requires 
actual performance of the work.
    Except for those restrictions imposed by proposed paragraph (d), an 
AMT with an aircraft rating would, under proposed paragraph (c), retain 
current privileges of a mechanic with an airframe and powerplant rating 
and would be permitted to perform the 100-hour inspection required by 
part 91.
    Proposed paragraph (d)(1) would set forth limitations on the holder 
of an AMT certificate with an aircraft rating. These limitations 
currently are not applicable to the holder of a mechanic certificate 
with an airframe and powerplant rating. The holder of an AMT 
certificate with an aircraft rating would not be permitted to approve 
for return to service any aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 
29, except after the performance of those tasks specified in paragraph 
(c) of appendix A to part 43 or after the performance of other tasks 
specified by the Administrator.
    Proposed paragraph (d)(2) would prohibit an AMT with an aircraft 
rating from performing or supervising a major repair or major 
alteration of a propeller or any repair or alteration of instruments 
(other than a horizontal-card liquid-filled compass), unless the work 
is being performed for, and is under the direct supervision and control 
of, a repair station certificated under part 145 or an air carrier 
conducting operations under part 121 or part 135.
    Proposed paragraph (d)(3) also would prohibit an AMT with an 
aircraft rating from approving for return to service any aircraft, 
airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part 
after completing a major repair or major alteration, or from approving 
for return to service any instrument other than a horizontal-card 
liquid-filled compass after completing any repair or alteration.
    In paragraph (d)(4), the proposal would require that a certificated 
AMT understand current instructions for continued airworthiness and the 
maintenance instructions for the specific operation concerned to 
exercise the privileges of the certificate and rating. Current 
Sec. 65.81 requires a mechanic to understand the more limited current 
instructions of the manufacturer and the maintenance manuals for the 
specific operation concerned.

Section 66.65  Aircraft Rating: Recent Experience Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.65 would prescribe the specific recent experience 
requirements for an AMT with an aircraft rating. This proposed section 
is based on current Sec. 65.83. The proposal would permit the holder of 
an AMT certificate with an aircraft rating to satisfy proposed recent 
experience requirements by using those means currently available to the 
holder of a mechanic certificate to meet current recent experience 
requirements. The proposal also would permit the holder of an AMT 
certificate with an aircraft rating additional means to maintain the 
recent experience required to exercise the privileges of the 
certificate and rating. In addition to the means currently specified in 
Sec. 65.83(a), the proposal would allow the AMT to meet the recent 
experience requirements to exercise the privileges of the certificate 
and rating if the person had served under the supervision of an AMT or 
AMT(T), provided aviation maintenance instruction under an aviation 
maintenance training program acceptable to the Administrator, or 
directly supervised other aviation maintenance instructors providing 
aviation maintenance instruction for a training program acceptable to 
the Administrator. The proposal also would allow the use of any 
combination of the proposed and current methods to maintain recent 
experience.
    In addition to the proposed requirements set forth in proposed 
paragraph (a)(1), proposed paragraph (a)(2) would require the 
successful completion of recurrent training appropriate to the duties 
of an AMT if the individual desires to exercise the privileges of the 
certificate and rating for compensation or hire. This training may 
consist of an AMT refresher course, an inspection authorization 
refresher course, or any other course of instruction acceptable to the 
Administrator that is appropriate to the duties of an AMT. 
Additionally, an AMT could satisfy the proposed recurrent training 
requirement in the following manner: through participation in the 
required training program of a certificate holder with a maintenance 
and preventive maintenance training program required under Sec. 121.375 
or Sec. 135.433 (as specified in proposed paragraph (a)(2)(ii)) or 
through participation in the training program of a U.S.-certificated 
repair station that performs work in accordance with Sec. 145.2(a) or 
conducts a maintenance and preventive maintenance training program (as 
specified in proposed paragraph (a)(2)(iii)). An AMT also could satisfy 
the proposed recurrent training requirement by providing aviation 
maintenance instruction or by serving as the supervisor of persons 
providing aviation maintenance instruction.

[[Page 37194]]

    Proposed paragraph (b) would not require all AMTs to complete the 
new recurrent training requirements. An AMT who, within the preceding 
24 months, has successfully completed a requalification course 
acceptable to the Administrator, or been found competent by the 
Administrator to exercise the privileges of the certificate, would not 
be subject to the proposed training requirements.
    Proposed paragraph (c) sets forth the limitations on exercising, 
for compensation or hire, the privileges of the AMT certificate with an 
aircraft rating. It would permit an AMT who has met the requirements of 
proposed paragraph (a)(1), but not proposed paragraph (a)(2) or (b), to 
exercise the privileges of the certificate and rating, but not for 
compensation or hire.

Section 66.67  Aviation Maintenance Instructor Rating: Additional 
Eligibility Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.67 would set forth the additional eligibility 
requirements for applicants seeking an aviation maintenance instructor 
rating. Proposed paragraph (a)(1) would require an applicant to possess 
a current and valid AMT certificate, with an aircraft rating, that has 
been in effect for a total of at least 3 years. Proposed paragraph 
(a)(2) would require an applicant to have been actively engaged in 
maintaining aircraft for at least the 2-year period before the date of 
application.
    An applicant also would be required, in proposed paragraph (a)(3), 
to have passed a knowledge test on those subjects pertinent to the 
exercise of the privileges of the aviation maintenance instructor 
rating. In lieu of passing such a test within 24 months of application 
for the rating, an applicant who could present evidence of recognized 
instructional proficiency, as stated in the proposed rule, would not be 
required to pass the knowledge test for the rating.
    Proposed paragraph (b) would recognize the proficiency of 
experienced, yet noncertificated, instructors. An applicant who, within 
12 months after the effective date of the rule, could present evidence 
acceptable to the Administrator that he or she had served as an 
aviation maintenance instructor or as the supervisor of aviation 
maintenance instructors at an aviation maintenance technician school 
certificated under part 147 would not be required to pass a knowledge 
test on instructional proficiency.

Section 66.69  Aviation Maintenance Instructor Rating: Instructional 
Knowledge and Proficiency

    Proposed Sec. 66.69 would specifically list those subjects in which 
an applicant for an aviation maintenance instructor rating would be 
required to demonstrate satisfactory instructional knowledge and 
proficiency. This material is identical to that contained in the 
Fundamentals of Instruction knowledge test.

Section 66.71  Aviation Maintenance Instructor Rating: Privileges and 
Limitations

    Proposed Sec. 66.71 would set forth the general privileges and 
limitations of the AMT certificate with an aviation maintenance 
instructor rating.

Section 66.73  Aviation Maintenance Instructor Rating: Recent 
Experience Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.73 would prescribe the specific recent experience 
requirements for an AMT with an aviation maintenance instructor rating. 
An individual holding this certificate and rating would not be 
permitted to exercise the privileges of the certificate and rating 
unless, within the preceding 24 months, the holder had provided 300 
hours of aviation maintenance instruction or had supervised other 
aviation maintenance instructors for a period of 300 hours. The holder 
also would meet the proposed recent experience requirements upon 
completion of an AMT refresher course (or other course of instruction 
acceptable to the Administrator) or if the Administrator had made a 
determination that the holder met the standards prescribed for the 
issuance of the certificate and rating.

Part 66, Subpart C  Aviation Maintenance Technicians (Transport)

    The structure of part 66, subpart C, is based on the current 
structure of part 65, subpart D. Under the proposed rule, the title of 
part 66, subpart C, would become ``Aviation Maintenance Technicians 
(Transport).''

Section 66.101  Eligibility Requirements: General

    Proposed Sec. 66.101 sets for the eligibility requirements for the 
proposed AMT(T) certificate. It would require all applicants for the 
AMT(T) certificate to hold a current and valid AMT certificate and to 
comply with any additional requirements for any rating sought. Because 
an applicant for an AMT(T) certificate would be required to hold a 
current and valid AMT certificate, an applicant would be required to 
have complied with proposed Sec. 66.51. Therefore, these requirements 
have not been repeated in the proposed section.

Section 66.103  Ratings

    Proposed Sec. 66.103 would establish aircraft and aviation 
maintenance instructor ratings issued under subpart C.

Section 66.105  Transition to New Certificates and Ratings

    Proposed Sec. 66.105 would establish the equivalency of the 
mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings and the 
proposed AMT(T) certificate with the aircraft rating. Therefore, the 
privileges and limitations of the proposed AMT(T) certificate with an 
aircraft rating would be identical to those of the current mechanic 
certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings. As the FAA would 
continue to recognize mechanic certificates with either an airframe 
rating or a powerplant rating, proposed paragraphs (b) and (c) would 
set forth approval for return-to-service limitations on the holders of 
these certificates, which are identical to those found in current part 
65.

Section 66.107  Aircraft Rating: Additional Eligibility Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.107 would set forth the additional eligibility 
requirements for the issuance of an AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft 
rating. An applicant would be required to successfully complete: an 
AMT(T) training program administered by an approved training provider; 
an AMT(T) training program approved under part 147; or a training 
program approved under part 121, subpart L, or part 135, subpart J. 
Training programs provided by a certificate holder would be required to 
meet the training program requirements specified in paragraph (d) of 
appendix A to proposed part 66.

Section 66.109  Aircraft Rating: Privileges and Limitations

    Proposed Sec. 66.109 is based on current Secs. 65.81, 65.85, and 
65.87, and would define the privileges and limitations of an AMT(T) 
certificate with an aircraft rating. Proposed Sec. 66.109 is 
structurally similar to proposed Sec. 66.63, which sets forth the 
privileges and limitations of the AMT certificate with an aircraft 
rating.
    The holder of an AMT(T) certificate with an aircraft rating would 
possess all of the privileges provided to the holder of the AMT 
certificate with an aircraft rating, as set forth in proposed 
Sec. 66.63. Proposed Sec. 66.109(d), however, would not include the 
limitation placed on the holder of an AMT certificate with an aircraft 
rating found in proposed Sec. 66.63

[[Page 37195]]

that precludes the holder from approving for return to service any 
aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29.

Section 66.111  Aircraft Rating: Recent Experience Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.111 would prescribe the specific recent experience 
requirements for AMT(T)s with an aircraft rating. This proposed section 
is based on current Sec. 65.83 and is structurally similar to proposed 
Sec. 66.65. It would differ from proposed Sec. 66.65 in that the 
maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alterations, which the AMT(T) 
with an aircraft rating would be required to have performed, 
supervised, or provided instruction in for at least 6 months within the 
preceding 24 months, would be required to be on an aircraft 
certificated under part 25 or part 29, or on any airframe, aircraft 
engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof. The proposed 
recurrent training requirements would be identical to those proposed 
for the AMT. It also would permit the holder of an AMT(T) certificate 
who had not satisfied the recent experience requirements for an AMT(T) 
certificate, but had satisfied the recent experience requirements for 
an AMT certificate, to exercise the privileges of the AMT certificate.

Section 66.113  Aviation Maintenance Instructor Rating: Additional 
Eligibility Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.113 would set forth the eligibility requirements 
for applicants with an AMT(T) certificate and aircraft rating who are 
seeking an aviation maintenance instructor rating. The requirements of 
proposed Sec. 66.113 would be similar to those established for an 
applicant with an AMT certificate and aircraft rating who is seeking an 
aviation maintenance instructor rating as set forth in proposed 
Sec. 66.67.
    The proposed section would differ from proposed Sec. 66.67 in that 
it also would permit a person possessing an AMT certificate with an 
aviation maintenance instructor rating, who meets the requirements for 
the issuance of an AMT(T) certificate, to be issued an AMT(T) 
certificate with an aviation maintenance instructor rating, upon 
application.

Section 66.115  Aviation Maintenance Instructor Rating: Privileges and 
Limitations

    Proposed Sec. 66.115 would set forth the general privileges and 
limitations of the AMT(T) certificate with an aviation maintenance 
instructor rating.

Section 66.117  Aviation Maintenance Instructor Rating: Recent 
Experience Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.117 would prescribe the specific recent experience 
requirements for AMT(T)s with an aviation maintenance instructor 
rating. The recent experience requirements set forth for an AMT(T) with 
an aviation maintenance instructor rating would be identical to those 
set forth in proposed Sec. 66.73 for an AMT with an aviation 
maintenance instructor rating. Because instructional skill is 
independent of the type of items on which an AMT(T) provides 
instruction, the aviation maintenance instruction that the individual 
would be required to provide to maintain recent experience, would not 
be required to pertain to aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 
29, or to the airframes, aircraft engines, propellers, appliances, 
components, or parts thereof.

Section 66.119  Aviation Maintenance Technician (Transport) Training 
Providers

    Proposed Sec. 66.119 would set forth the requirements for those 
persons seeking approval as AMT(T) training providers. An applicant for 
approval as a training provider would be required to submit a written 
request for approval to the Administrator and to comply with appendix A 
to proposed part 66.
    Proposed paragraph (b) would only require a certificate holder 
operating under part 121 or part 135, an aviation maintenance 
technician school certificated under part 147, or a certificated repair 
station operating pursuant to Sec. 145.2(a) to request approval and 
show that its training program meets the requirements of paragraph (d) 
of appendix A to proposed part 66.

Part 66, Subpart D Inspection Authorizations

    Proposed part 66, subpart D, would consolidate into a single 
subpart those portions of current part 65 that pertain to the issuance 
of inspection authorizations. Under the proposed rule, the title of 
part 66, subpart D, would become ``Inspection Authorizations.''

Section 66.151  Eligibility Requirements: General

    Proposed Sec. 66.151 is based on current Sec. 65.91 and would set 
forth the general eligibility requirements for applicants for an 
inspection authorization. Proposed paragraph (a) would require an 
applicant to meet the requirements of current Sec. 65.91(c) and would 
establish an additional requirement for applicants to have attended and 
successfully completed an inspection authorization course, acceptable 
to the Administrator, of not less than 8 hours of instruction during 
the 12-month period preceding the application. Attendance at such a 
course would ensure standardization of inspection procedures and a more 
uniform interpretation of regulatory and advisory material by holders 
of the inspection authorization. The proposal would permit the holder 
of an AMT certificate or an AMT(T) certificate to obtain an inspection 
authorization. It would also require the applicant to have passed a 
knowledge test on his or her ability to inspect according to safety 
standards for approving aircraft for return to service after all 
repairs and alterations.
    Proposed paragraph (b) would set forth the requirements for an 
applicant seeking to remove the limitation imposed by proposed 
Sec. 66.157(b). Proposed paragraph (b) would require an applicant 
seeking to inspect and approve for return to service any aircraft 
certificated under part 25 or part 29 (except those maintained in 
accordance with a continuous airworthiness maintenance program approved 
under part 121) to possess an AMT(T) certificate and to have been 
actively engaged, for at least the 2-year period before application, in 
the maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft 
certificated under part 25 or part 29, or of any airframe, aircraft 
engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof.
    Proposed paragraph (c) would retain the current prohibition against 
applying for a retest within 90 days after a previous testing failure.

Section 66.153  Duration of Authorization

    Proposed Sec. 66.153 would prescribe the duration of an inspection 
authorization. This proposed section is based on current Sec. 65.92, 
with two substantive differences. Under the proposal, the expiration 
date of the inspection authorization would be extended to the last day 
of the 24th month after its issuance. Under the current regulation, the 
inspection authorization expires on March 31 of each year. 
Additionally, the proposal would state that an inspection authorization 
would no longer be effective if its holder does not possess a current 
and valid AMT or AMT(T) certificate.

Section 66.155  Renewal of Authorization

    Proposed Sec. 66.155 would prescribe the renewal procedures for an

[[Page 37196]]

inspection authorization and is based on current Sec. 65.93. The 
proposed section would extend the inspection authorization renewal 
requirement to every 2 years so that it would correspond to the 
extension of the duration of the inspection authorization, as proposed 
in Sec. 66.153. Applications for renewal would be required to be 
presented to the appropriate FAA office within 90 days before the date 
of an inspection authorization's expiration.
    The proposal would retain current provisions specifying the renewal 
requirements for an inspection authorization and also would permit the 
holder of an inspection authorization to use a combination of annual 
inspections, inspections of major repairs or major alterations, and 
progressive inspections to satisfy renewal requirements. To facilitate 
the combination of these inspections, the proposal would change the 
currently specified 90-day period to a 3-month period.
    Under the current regulation, the holder of an inspection 
authorization may renew the authorization by attending and successfully 
completing a refresher course, acceptable to the Administrator, of not 
less than 8 hours, during the 12-month period preceding the application 
for renewal. As the proposed rule would extend the duration of the 
inspection authorization from 12 months to 24 months, the amount of 
time required for the holder of an inspection authorization to renew an 
authorization by using this method, in lieu of other performance 
requirements, would be proportionally increased to 16 hours. The 
proposal would specify that this training could be accomplished through 
attendance at an inspection authorization refresher course or a series 
of courses, acceptable to the Administrator, during the expanded 
renewal period. The proposal recognizes recent developments in 
instructional techniques and, through the acceptance of a series of 
courses acceptable to the Administrator, would permit instructional 
methods that may differ from the standard classroom or lecture format.

Section 66.157  Privileges and Limitations

    Proposed Sec. 66.157 would prescribe the privileges and limitations 
of an inspection authorization. The privileges of the holder of an 
AMT(T) certificate with an inspection authorization are based on 
current Sec. 65.95, with no substantive differences. The privileges of 
the holder of an AMT certificate with an inspection authorization are 
based on current Sec. 65.95, with certain distinctions that reflect the 
privileges and limitations of the AMT certificate. The holder of an AMT 
certificate with an inspection authorization would possess those 
privileges specified in current Sec. 65.95 except that the holder would 
not be permitted to inspect and approve aircraft certificated under 
part 25 or part 29 for return to service after completion of a major 
repair or a major alteration. The holder of an AMT certificate with an 
inspection authorization also would not be permitted to perform an 
annual inspection, or perform or supervise a progressive inspection, 
according to Secs. 43.13 and 43.15, on aircraft that have been 
certificated under part 25 or part 29.

Part 66, Subpart E  Aviation Repair Specialists

    The structure of part 66, subpart E, is based on the current 
structure of part 65, subpart D. Under the proposed rule, the title of 
part 66, subpart E, would become ``Aviation Repair Specialists.''

Section 66.201  Aviation Repair Specialist Certificates Issued on the 
Basis of Proficiency in a Designated Specialty Area (ARS-I): 
Eligibility

    Proposed Sec. 66.201 would set forth the general eligibility 
requirements for an applicant seeking an aviation repair specialist 
certificate issued on the basis of proficiency in a designated 
specialty area (ARS-I). An applicant for this new certificate would be 
required to be at least 18 years of age and demonstrate the ability to 
read, write, speak, and understand the English language by reading and 
explaining appropriate maintenance publications, and by writing defect 
and repair statements. The Administrator, however, could place such 
limitations on an applicant's certificate as are necessary for the safe 
maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft if the 
applicant is unable to meet any of these requirements because of 
medical reasons.
    The applicant also would be required to present either an 
appropriate graduation certificate, a certificate of completion, or 
other documentary evidence acceptable to the Administrator, that 
demonstrates the satisfactory completion of an acceptable aviation 
repair specialist training course or program for a rating in a 
specialty area designated by the Administrator. Before 12 months after 
the effective date of the rule, evidence acceptable to the 
Administrator of the ability to perform those tasks appropriate to the 
certificate and rating in the designated specialty area sought, also 
could be presented.

Section 66.203  Aviation Repair Specialist Certificates Issued on the 
Basis of Employment (ARS-II): Eligibility

    Proposed Sec. 66.203 is based on current Sec. 65.101 and would 
prescribe the general eligibility requirements for the aviation repair 
specialist certificate issued on the basis of employment (ARS-II). The 
language of proposed paragraph (b) differs from current Sec. 65.101 in 
that it would not only require an applicant for an aviation repair 
specialist certificate to read, write, speak, and understand the 
English language but also would require the applicant to demonstrate 
this knowledge by reading and explaining appropriate maintenance 
publications and by writing defect and repair statements. The 
Administrator, however, could place such limitations on an applicant's 
certificate as are necessary for the safe maintenance, preventive 
maintenance, or alteration of aircraft if the applicant is unable to 
meet any of these requirements because of medical reasons. The proposal 
also differs from current Sec. 65.101 in that it would eliminate the 
issuance of certificates to individuals who cannot read, write, speak, 
or understand the English language and who are employed solely outside 
the United States by a U.S.-certificated repair station, a U.S.-
certificated commercial operator, or a U.S.-certificated air carrier. 
This change corresponds with proposed Secs. 66.51 and 66.101, which 
eliminate the issuance of AMT and AMT(T) certificates under similar 
circumstances.
    Proposed paragraph (c) differs from the current section in that it 
would provide a more comprehensive listing of items on which an 
applicant could be qualified to perform maintenance (aircraft, 
airframes, aircraft engines, propellers, appliances, components, and 
parts thereof). Proposed paragraph (d) would change the current 
reference in Sec. 65.101(a)(3) from ``its maintenance manuals'' to 
``its certificate holder's manual''.
    Proposed paragraph (f)(1) would specify the current 18-month 
practical experience requirement in hours instead of months as set 
forth in current Sec. 65.101(a)(5)(i). The 3,000 hours of experience 
specified in the proposal are approximately equal to the current 18-
month experience requirement.

Section 66.205  Aviation Repair Specialist Certificates Issued to 
Experimental Aircraft Builders (ARS-III): Eligibility

    Proposed Sec. 66.205 is based on current Sec. 65.104(a). The 
proposed section would

[[Page 37197]]

change the term ``repairman certificate-experimental aircraft builder'' 
to ``aviation repair specialist certificate issued to an experimental 
aircraft builder (ARS-III).'' There are no substantive differences 
between the proposed section and current Sec. 65.104(a).

Section 66.207  Transition to New Certificates

    Proposed Sec. 66.207 establishes the equivalency of the proposed 
ARS-II certificate with the repairman certificate specified in current 
Sec. 65.101, and the equivalency of the proposed ARS-III certificate 
with the repairman certificate (experimental aircraft builder) 
specified in current Sec. 65.104.

Section 66.209  Aviation Repair Specialist Certificates Issued on the 
Basis of Proficiency in a Designated Area (ARS-I): Privileges and 
Limitations

    Proposed Sec. 66.209 would set forth the general privileges and 
limitations of the aviation repair specialist certificate issued on the 
basis of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I). The holder 
of the certificate would be permitted to perform or supervise the 
maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft, 
airframes, aircraft engines, propellers, appliances, components, and 
parts thereof appropriate to the designated specialty area for which 
the aviation repair specialist is certificated but only in connection 
with employment by a certificate holder operating under part 121, 135, 
or 145.
    Proposed paragraph (b) would prohibit the holder from performing or 
supervising duties unless the individual understands the current 
instructions of the certificate holder employing the aviation repair 
specialist and the instructions for continued airworthiness that relate 
to the specific operations concerned.

Section 66.211  Aviation Repair Specialist Certificates Issued on the 
Basis of Employment (ARS-II): Privileges and Limitations

    Proposed Sec. 66.211 is based on current Sec. 65.103 and would set 
forth the general privileges and limitations of the aviation repair 
specialist certificate issued on the basis of employment (ARS-II). 
Proposed paragraph (a) differs from the current section in that it 
would provide a more comprehensive listing of items on which an 
applicant could be qualified to perform work (aircraft, airframes, 
aircraft engines, propellers, appliances, components, and parts 
thereof). Proposed paragraph (b) is equivalent to current 
Sec. 65.103(b).

Section 66.213  Aviation Repair Specialist Certificates Issued to 
Experimental Aircraft Builders (ARS-III): Privileges and Limitations

    Proposed Sec. 66.213 is based on current Sec. 65.104(b), with no 
substantive changes.

Section 66.215  Aviation Repair Specialist Certificates Issued on the 
Basis of Proficiency in a Designated Specialty Area (ARS-I): Recent 
Experience Requirements

    Proposed Sec. 66.215 would set forth recent experience requirements 
for holders of aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the 
basis of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I). The holder 
would not be permitted to exercise the privileges of the certificate 
and rating unless the holder meets the current qualification and 
proficiency requirements for the issuance of the certificate and rating 
in the designated specialty area.

Part 66, Appendix A+Aviation Maintenance Technician (Transport) 
Training Program Curriculum Requirements

    Proposed appendix A to part 66 would set forth the training program 
requirements for the AMT(T) curriculum. It would set forth the minimum 
requirements for the form and content of the training program outline 
and would establish minimum training program requirements. It also 
would permit the provision of training in additional subject areas not 
specified in the appendix and would establish procedures for the 
revision of an approved training provider's training program. The 
proposal also would describe the facilities, equipment, material, and 
instructor requirements necessary to conduct an AMT(T) training 
program.
    The proposal would describe those student records that would be 
required to be retained by the training provider and the amount of 
credit the training provider could provide to a student for previous 
training. It also would require an approved training provider to 
furnish each student with a statement of graduation upon completion of 
the curriculum and, upon request, a record of training for any portion 
of the training program that has been completed.
    The proposed appendix would set forth notification requirements for 
training providers in the event of a change of ownership, name, or 
location. It also would establish standards for the conduct of 
instruction provided by contract or agreement. In addition, the 
proposal would set forth specific periods for the duration of a 
training provider's approval and establish criteria for cancellation 
and renewal of the approval.

Section 147.23  Instructor Requirements

    The proposal would amend current Sec. 147.23 to require that an 
applicant for an aviation maintenance technician school certificate and 
rating(s) provide the number of instructors who hold appropriate AMT or 
AMT(T) certificates with aviation maintenance instructor ratings, that 
the Administrator determines is necessary to provide adequate 
supervision of the students. Twelve months after the effective date of 
the rule, at least 1 AMT with an aviation maintenance instructor 
rating, or 1 AMT(T) with an aviation maintenance instructor rating, 
would be required for every 25 students in each shop class.

Section 147.36 Maintenance Instructor Requirements

    The proposal would amend current Sec. 147.36 to require that each 
aviation maintenance technician school, after certification or addition 
of a rating, provide the number of instructors who hold appropriate AMT 
certificates with aviation maintenance instructor ratings or AMT(T) 
certificates with aviation maintenance instructor ratings, that the 
Administrator determines is necessary to provide adequate instruction 
for the students. Twelve months after the effective date of the rule, 
at least 1 AMT with an aviation maintenance instructor rating, or 1 
AMT(T) with an aviation maintenance instructor rating, would be 
required for every 25 students in each shop class.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    Proposed Sec. 66.17 contains information collection requirements 
that are not contained in the current rule. As required by the 
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3507(d)), the FAA has 
submitted a copy of this proposed section to the Office of Management 
and Budget (OMB) for its review.
    The FAA needs the information to be collected to determine the 
number of active AMT and AMT(T) certificate holders and to obtain 
current address information from these personnel so that safety-related 
data can be quickly distributed to these personnel when necessary. The 
FAA estimates that the additional burden of collecting this information 
during the first year of the proposed rule is 20,000 hours. One year 
after the effective date of the proposed

[[Page 37198]]

rule, this information would be updated by holders of AMT and AMT(T) 
certificates once over a 48-month period. The estimated burden of 
collecting this information would be reduced to 5,000 hours annually.
    The FAA estimates that this proposal will affect 120,000 
certificate holders during the first year of the proposal and 30,000 
certificate holders annually afterward.
    Organizations and individuals desiring to submit comments on the 
information collection requirement should direct them to the Office of 
Information and Regulatory Affairs, OMB, Room 1235, New Executive 
Office Building, Washington, DC 20503; Attention: Desk Officer for 
Federal Aviation Administration. These comments should reflect whether 
the proposed collection is necessary; whether the agency's estimate of 
the burden is accurate; how the quality, utility, and clarity of the 
information to be collected can be enhanced; and how the burden of the 
collection can be minimized. A copy of the comments should be submitted 
to the FAA Rules Docket.

International Civil Aviation Organization and Joint Aviation 
Regulations

    In keeping with U.S. obligations under the Convention on 
International Civil Aviation (ICAO), it is FAA policy to comply with 
ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices to the maximum extent 
practicable. The FAA is not aware of any differences that this proposal 
would present if adopted. Any differences that may be presented in 
comments to this proposal, however, will be taken into consideration.

Regulatory Evaluation Summary

Cost-Benefit Analysis

    This section summarizes the full regulatory evaluation prepared by 
the FAA that provides more detailed estimates of the economic 
consequences of this regulatory action. This summary and the full 
evaluation quantify, to the extent practicable, estimated costs to the 
private sector, consumers, Federal, State and local governments, as 
well as anticipated benefits. The evaluation was conducted in 
accordance with Executive Order 12866, which directs that each Federal 
agency can propose or adopt a regulation only upon a reasoned 
determination that the benefits of the intended regulation justify the 
costs. This document also includes an initial regulatory flexibility 
determination, required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, and 
an international trade impact assessment, required by the Office of 
Management and Budget.
    This document is considered a ``non-significant regulatory action'' 
under Executive Order 12866 and, therefore, has not been reviewed by 
the Office of Management and Budget. This document is also considered 
non-significant under the regulatory policies and procedures of the 
Department of Transportation (44 FR 11034; February 2, 1979).

Costs

    This proposed rule would revise the regulations that prescribe the 
certification and training requirements for mechanics and repairmen. 
Current regulations prescribing these certification requirements do not 
reflect the extensive differences in the maintenance skills required of 
currently certificated personnel, the significant technological 
advances that have occurred in the aviation industry, and the 
enhancements in training and instructional methods, that have affected 
all aviation maintenance personnel. The proposed rule would consolidate 
and clarify for aviation maintenance personnel all certification, 
training, experience, and currency requirements in a newly established 
14 CFR part 66. This rulemaking would create additional certificates 
and ratings, and would modify the privileges and limitations of current 
certificates to respond more closely to the current responsibilities of 
aviation maintenance personnel. The proposed rule also would enhance 
the technical capabilities of, and increase the level of 
professionalism among, aviation maintenance personnel by establishing 
new training requirements.
    The total quantifiable cost in second quarter 1996 dollars was 
estimated at between $219 million and $404 million over ten years 
(between $153.8 million and $283.8 million discounted). The cost range 
is a function of the estimated range of affected mechanics. The total 
quantifiable costs to all affected mechanics for obtaining an aviation 
maintenance technician (transport) (AMT(T)) certificate were estimated 
at between $146 million and $293 million over ten years (between $102.5 
and $207.8 million discounted at 7 percent). The cost of the provision 
relating to recurrent training would range between $73 million and $111 
million over ten years (between $51.3 million and $78.0 million, 
discounted).

Cost Savings

    There are a number of potential sources of cost savings in the 
proposal. Improved training is expected to increase productivity 
between about $238 million and $595 million (between $167.2 million and 
$417.9 million, discounted over ten years). Elimination of course 
redundancy in the A & P curriculum could provide estimated cost savings 
between $166 million to $222 million over ten years (between $116.6 
million and $155.9 million, discounted). Other changes could add 
approximately $18.1 million in cost savings over ten years ($12.7 
million, discounted). The total potential cost savings would therefore 
range between $422.1 million and $817.0 million total over ten years 
(between $296.4 million and $573.8 million, discounted).
    Based upon the low compliance cost coupled with the potential cost 
savings, the FAA concludes that the proposed rule is cost beneficial.

Initial Regulatory Flexibility Determination

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (RFA) (Public Law 96-354; 
September 19, 1980) was enacted by Congress to ensure that small 
entities are not unnecessarily and disproportionately burdened by 
government regulations. The RFA requires agencies to review rules that 
may have ``a significant cost impact on a substantial number of small 
entities.''
    All of the major changes to the rules discussed in this NPRM would 
affect mechanics and repairmen, who are individuals rather than 
business entities or government entities. The revisions that impact 
maintenance schools would not exceed the cost-threshold level, as found 
in FAA Order 2100.14A, ``Regulatory Flexibility Criteria and Guidance'' 
(September 1986). Therefore, the FAA has determined that the proposed 
revisions would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities.

International Trade Impact

    The proposed rule would not affect international trade since the 
mechanics affected would not be employed by firms whose operations are 
of an international scale.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act Assessment

    This proposed rule does not contain any Federal intergovernmental 
or private sector mandate. Therefore, the requirements of Title II of 
the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 do not apply.

Federalism Implications

    The regulations proposed herein will not have substantial direct 
effects on the States, on the relationship between the

[[Page 37199]]

national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among various levels of government. Therefore, in 
accordance with Executive Order 12612, it is determined that this 
proposal would not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant 
the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.

Cross-Reference

    To identify the location in proposed part 66 where present 
regulations (or portions thereof) pertaining to mechanics and repairmen 
would be found, the following cross-reference list is provided. 
(Current Secs. 65.1 through 65.23, except for Sec. 65.3, would not be 
deleted from part 65 as these sections would still pertain to those 
airmen who would continue to be regulated by that part.)

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Old                                  New            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
65.1......................................  66.1                        
65.3......................................  66.3                        
65.11.....................................  66.5                        
65.12.....................................  66.27                       
65.13.....................................  66.7                        
65.15.....................................  66.9                        
65.16.....................................  66.13                       
65.17.....................................  66.21                       
65.18.....................................  66.23                       
65.19.....................................  66.25                       
65.20.....................................  66.19                       
65.21.....................................  66.15                       
65.23.....................................  66.29                       
65.71.....................................  66.51 and 66.101            
65.73.....................................  66.53 and 66.103            
65.75.....................................  66.55                       
65.77.....................................  66.57                       
65.79.....................................  66.59                       
65.80.....................................  66.61                       
65.81.....................................  66.63 and 66.109            
65.83.....................................  66.65 and 66.111            
65.85.....................................  66.63 and 66.109            
65.87.....................................  66.63 and 66.109            
65.89.....................................  66.11                       
65.91.....................................  66.151                      
65.92.....................................  66.153                      
65.93.....................................  66.155                      
65.95.....................................  66.157                      
65.101....................................  66.203                      
65.103....................................  66.211                      
65.104....................................  66.205 and 66.213           
65.105....................................  66.11                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The following list shows where the proposals contained in this 
document can be found in current part 65:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    New                                  Old            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
66.1......................................  65.1                        
66.3......................................  65.3                        
66.5......................................  65.11                       
66.7......................................  65.13                       
66.9......................................  65.15                       
66.11.....................................  65.89 and 65.105            
66.13.....................................  65.16                       
66.15.....................................  65.21                       
66.17.....................................  New                         
66.19.....................................  65.20                       
66.21.....................................  65.17                       
66.23.....................................  65.18                       
66.25.....................................  65.19                       
66.27.....................................  65.12                       
66.29.....................................  65.23                       
66.31.....................................  New                         
66.51.....................................  65.71                       
66.53.....................................  65.73                       
66.55.....................................  65.75                       
66.57.....................................  65.77                       
66.59.....................................  65.79                       
66.61.....................................  65.80                       
66.63.....................................  65.81, 65.85, and 65.87     
66.65.....................................  65.83                       
66.67.....................................  New                         
66.69.....................................  New                         
66.71.....................................  New                         
66.73.....................................  New                         
66.101....................................  65.71                       
66.103....................................  65.73                       
66.105....................................  New                         
66.107....................................  New                         
66.109....................................  65.81, 65.85, and 65.87     
66.111....................................  65.83                       
66.113....................................  New                         
66.115....................................  New                         
66.117....................................  New                         
66.119....................................  New                         
66.151....................................  65.91                       
66.153....................................  65.92                       
66.155....................................  65.93                       
66.157....................................  65.95                       
66.201....................................  New                         
66.203....................................  65.101                      
66.205....................................  65.104                      
66.207....................................  New                         
66.209....................................  New                         
66.211....................................  65.103                      
66.213....................................  65.104                      
66.215....................................  New                         
------------------------------------------------------------------------

List of Subjects

14 CFR Part 65

    Air traffic controllers, Aircraft, Airmen, Airports, Alcohol abuse, 
Drug abuse, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

14 CFR Part 66

    Air safety, Air transportation, Aircraft, Airmen, Alcohol abuse, 
Aviation safety, Drug abuse, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

14 CFR Part 147

    Aircraft, Airmen, Educational facilities, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Schools.

The Proposed Amendment

    In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Aviation 
Administration proposes to amend Chapter I of 14 CFR as follows:

PART 65--CERTIFICATION: AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL TOWER OPERATORS, 
AIRCRAFT DISPATCHERS, AND PARACHUTE RIGGERS

    1. The heading for part 65 is revised to read as set forth above.
    2. The authority citation for part 65 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701-44703, 44707, 44709-
44711, 45102-45103, 45301-45302.


Sec. 65.1  [Amended]

    3. Section 65.1 is amended by removing paragraphs (c) and (d) and 
redesignating paragraph (e) as paragraph (c).


Sec. 65.3  [Removed and Reserved]

    4. Section 65.3 is removed and reserved.
    5. Section 65.11 is amended by revising paragraphs (c) and (d) to 
read as follows:


Sec. 65.11  Application and issue.

* * * * *
    (c) Unless authorized by the Administrator, a person whose air 
traffic control tower operator certificate or parachute rigger 
certificate is suspended may not apply for any rating to be added to 
that certificate during the period of suspension.
    (d) Unless the order of revocation provides otherwise, a person 
whose air traffic control tower operator, aircraft dispatcher, or 
parachute rigger certificate is revoked may not apply for the same kind 
of certificate for 1 year after the date of revocation.
    6. Section 65.15 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 65.15  Duration of certificates.

    (a) A certificate or rating issued under this part is effective 
until it is surrendered, suspended, or revoked.
    (b) The holder of a certificate issued under this part that is 
suspended, revoked, or is no longer effective, shall return that 
certificate to the Administrator.

Subpart D [Removed and Reserved]

    7. Part 65, subpart D, consisting of Secs. 65.71 through 65.95, is 
removed and reserved.

Subpart E [Removed and Reserved]

    8. Part 65, subpart E, consisting of Secs. 65.101 through 65.105, 
is removed and reserved.
    9. Part 66 is added to read as follows:

[[Page 37200]]

PART 66--CERTIFICATION: AVIATION MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL

Subpart A--General

Sec.
66.1  Applicability.
66.3  Certification of foreign aviation maintenance personnel.
66.5  Application and issue.
66.7  Temporary certificate.
66.9  Duration of certificates.
66.11  Display of certificate.
66.13  Change of name: Replacement of lost or destroyed certificate.
66.15  Change of address.
66.17  Periodic registration.
66.19  Applications, certificates, logbooks, reports, and records: 
Falsification, reproduction, or alteration.
66.21  Tests: General procedure.
66.23  Knowledge tests: Cheating or other unauthorized conduct.
66.25  Retesting after failure.
66.27  Offenses involving alcohol or drugs.
66.29  Refusal to submit to a drug or alcohol test.
66.31  Waivers: Policy and procedures.

Subpart B--Aviation Maintenance Technicians

66.51  Eligibility requirements: General.
66.53  Ratings.
66.55  Aircraft rating: Knowledge requirements.
66.57  Aircraft rating: Experience requirements.
66.59  Aircraft rating: Competency requirements.
66.61  Certificated aviation maintenance technician school students.
66.63  Aircraft rating: Privileges and limitations.
66.65  Aircraft rating: Recent experience requirements.
66.67  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Additional 
eligibility requirements.
66.69  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Instructional 
knowledge and proficiency.
66.71  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Privileges and 
limitations.
66.73  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Recent experience 
requirements.

Subpart C--Aviation Maintenance Technicians (Transport)

66.101  Eligibility requirements: General.
66.103  Ratings.
66.105  Transition to new certificates and ratings.
66.107  Aircraft rating: Additional eligibility requirements.
66.109  Aircraft rating: Privileges and limitations.
66.111  Aircraft rating: Recent experience requirements.
66.113  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Additional 
eligibility requirements.
66.115  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Privileges and 
limitations.
66.117  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Recent experience 
requirements.
66.119  Aviation maintenance technician (transport) training 
providers.

Subpart D--Inspection Authorizations

66.151  Eligibility requirements: General.
66.153  Duration of authorization.
66.155  Renewal of authorization.
66.157  Privileges and limitations.

Subpart E--Aviation Repair Specialists

66.201 Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the basis 
of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I): Eligibility.
66.203  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the basis 
of employment (ARS-II): Eligibility.
66.205  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued to 
experimental aircraft builders (ARS-III): Eligibility.
66.207  Transition to new certificates.
66.209  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the basis 
of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I): Privileges 
and limitations.
66.211  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the basis 
of employment (ARS-II): Privileges and limitations.
66.213  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued to 
experimental aircraft builders (ARS-III): Privileges and 
limitations.
66.215  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the basis 
of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I): Recent 
experience requirements.
Appendix A to Part 66--Aviation Maintenance Technician (Transport) 
Training Program Curriculum Requirements

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701-44703, 44707, 44709-
44711, 45102-45103, 45301-45302.

Subpart A--General


Sec. 66.1  Applicability.

    (a) This part prescribes the requirements for issuing the 
certificates listed in paragraph (b) of this section and any associated 
rating or inspection authorization and the general operating rules for 
holders of those certificates, ratings, and inspection authorizations.
    (b) The following certificates are issued under this part:
    (1) Aviation maintenance technician.
    (2) Aviation maintenance technician (transport).
    (3) Aviation repair specialist.


Sec. 66.3  Certification of foreign aviation maintenance personnel.

    A person who is neither a U.S. citizen nor a resident alien is 
issued a certificate under subpart B or C of this part, outside the 
United States, only when the Administrator finds that the certificate 
is needed for the operation or continued airworthiness of a U.S.-
registered civil aircraft.


Sec. 66.5  Application and issue.

    (a) Application for a certificate, rating, or inspection 
authorization under this part must be made on a form and in a manner 
prescribed by the Administrator. Each person who is neither a U.S. 
citizen nor a resident alien and who applies for a knowledge or 
practical test to be administered outside the United States or for any 
certificate, rating, or inspection authorization issued under this part 
must show evidence that the fee prescribed in appendix A to part 187 of 
this chapter has been paid.
    (b) An applicant who meets the requirements of this part is 
entitled to an appropriate certificate, rating, or inspection 
authorization.
    (c) Unless authorized by the Administrator, a person whose aviation 
maintenance technician certificate, aviation maintenance technician 
(transport) certificate, or aviation repair specialist certificate is 
suspended may not apply for any rating to be added to that certificate 
during the period of suspension.
    (d) Unless the order of revocation provides otherwise, a person 
whose aviation maintenance technician certificate, aviation maintenance 
technician (transport) certificate, or aviation repair specialist 
certificate is revoked may not apply for any of these certificates for 
1 year after the date of revocation.


Sec. 66.7  Temporary certificate.

    A certificate or rating effective for a period of not more than 120 
days may be issued to a qualified applicant, pending review of the 
applicant's qualifications and the issuance by the Administrator of the 
certificate or rating for which the application was made.


Sec. 66.9  Duration of certificates.

    (a) An aviation maintenance technician certificate, an aviation 
maintenance technician (transport) certificate, an aviation repair 
specialist certificate issued on the basis of proficiency in a 
designated specialty area (ARS-I), an aviation repair specialist 
certificate issued to an experimental aircraft builder (ARS-III), or 
any rating issued under this part is effective until it is surrendered, 
suspended, or revoked.
    (b) Unless it is sooner surrendered, suspended, or revoked, an 
aviation repair specialist certificate issued on the basis of 
employment (ARS-II) is effective until the holder of that certificate 
is relieved from the duties for which the holder was employed and 
certificated.

[[Page 37201]]

    (c) The holder of a certificate issued under this part that is 
suspended, revoked, or no longer effective, shall return that 
certificate to the Administrator.


Sec. 66.11  Display of certificate.

    Each person who holds an aviation maintenance technician 
certificate, an aviation maintenance technician (transport) 
certificate, or an aviation repair specialist certificate shall keep it 
within the immediate area where the person normally exercises the 
privileges of the certificate and shall present it for inspection upon 
the request of the Administrator or an authorized representative of the 
National Transportation Safety Board, or of any Federal, State, or 
local law enforcement officer.


Sec. 66.13  Change of name: Replacement of lost or destroyed 
certificate.

    (a) An application for a change of name on a certificate issued 
under this part must be accompanied by the applicant's current 
certificate and the marriage license, court order, or other document 
verifying the change. The documents are returned to the applicant after 
inspection.
    (b) An application for replacement of a lost or destroyed 
certificate is made by letter to the Department of Transportation, 
Federal Aviation Administration, Airman Certification Branch, Post 
Office Box 25082, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73125. The letter must--
    (1) Contain the name in which the certificate was issued, the 
permanent mailing address (including ZIP Code), Social Security Number 
(if any), and date and place of birth of the certificate holder, and 
any available information regarding the grade, number, and date of 
issue of the certificate and the ratings on it; and
    (2) Be accompanied by a check or money order for $2, payable to the 
Federal Aviation Administration.
    (c) A person whose certificate issued under this part has been lost 
may obtain a telegram or facsimile from the Federal Aviation 
Administration confirming that it was issued. The telegram or facsimile 
may be carried as a certificate for a period not to exceed 90 days, 
pending the receipt of a duplicate certificate under paragraph (b) of 
this section, unless the person has been notified that the certificate 
has been suspended or revoked. The request for such a telegram or 
facsimile may be made by prepaid telegram or facsimile, stating the 
date on which a duplicate certificate was requested, or including the 
request for a duplicate and a money order for the appropriate amount. 
The request for a telegraphic or facsimile certificate should be sent 
to the office prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section.


Sec. 66.15  Change of address.

    The holder of a certificate issued under this part who has made a 
change in permanent mailing address may not, after 30 days from that 
date, exercise the privileges of the certificate unless the holder has 
notified, in writing, the Department of Transportation, Federal 
Aviation Administration, Airman Certification Branch, Post Office Box 
25082, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73125, of the new address.


Sec. 66.17  Periodic registration.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the holder 
of an aviation maintenance technician certificate or an aviation 
maintenance technician (transport) certificate shall, before the last 
day of the 12th calendar month after [date 12 months after the 
effective date of the final rule], and before the last day of each 48-
calendar-month period thereafter, notify, in a form and manner 
prescribed by the Administrator, the Department of Transportation, 
Federal Aviation Administration, Airman Certification Branch, Post 
Office Box 25082, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73125, of his or her current 
mailing address.
    (b) The holder of an aviation maintenance technician certificate or 
an aviation maintenance technician (transport) certificate need not 
comply with the notification provisions of paragraph (a) of this 
section if the holder has, within the same 12- or 48-calendar-month 
period for which a notification was required in paragraph (a) of this 
section--
    (1) Been issued a certificate, rating, or inspection authorization 
under the provisions of this part;
    (2) Been issued an airman medical certificate under the provisions 
of part 67 of this chapter; or
    (3) Notified the Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation 
Administration, Airman Certification Branch, Post Office Box 25082, 
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73125, under the provisions of Sec. 66.13 or 
Sec. 66.15.
    (c) The holder of an aviation maintenance technician certificate or 
an aviation maintenance technician (transport) certificate issued under 
this part, who has not complied with the requirements of this section 
may not exercise the privileges of the certificate until the 
notification required by this section has been made.


Sec. 66.19  Applications, certificates, logbooks, reports, and records: 
Falsification, reproduction, or alteration.

    (a) No person may make or cause to be made--
    (1) Any fraudulent or intentionally false statement on any 
application for a certificate, rating, or inspection authorization 
under this part;
    (2) Any fraudulent or intentionally false entry in any logbook, 
record, or report that is required to be kept, made, or used to show 
compliance with any requirement for any certificate, rating, or 
inspection authorization under this part;
    (3) Any reproduction, for fraudulent purpose, of any certificate, 
rating, or inspection authorization under this part; or
    (4) Any alteration of any certificate, rating, or inspection 
authorization under this part.
    (b) The commission by any person of an act prohibited under 
paragraph (a) of this section is a basis for suspending or revoking any 
airman certificate, rating, or inspection authorization held by that 
person.


Sec. 66.21  Tests: General procedure.

    (a) Tests prescribed by or under this part are given at times and 
places, and by persons, designated by the Administrator.
    (b) The minimum passing grade for each test is 70 percent.


Sec. 66.23  Knowledge tests: Cheating or other unauthorized conduct.

    (a) Except as authorized by the Administrator, no person may--
    (1) Copy, or intentionally remove, a knowledge test under this 
part;
    (2) Give to another, or receive from another, any part or copy of 
that test;
    (3) Give help on that test to, or receive help on that test from, 
any person during the period that the test is being given;
    (4) Take any part of that test on behalf of another person;
    (5) Use any material or aid during the period that the test is 
being given; or
    (6) Intentionally cause, assist, or participate in any act 
prohibited by this paragraph (a).
    (b) No person who commits an act prohibited by paragraph (a) of 
this section is eligible for any airman or ground instructor 
certificate, rating, or inspection authorization under this chapter for 
a period of 1 year after the date of that act. In addition, the 
commission of that act is a basis for suspending or revoking any airman 
or ground instructor certificate, rating, or inspection authorization 
held by that person.

[[Page 37202]]

Sec. 66.25  Retesting after failure.

    An applicant for a knowledge, oral, or practical test for a 
certificate, rating, or inspection authorization under this part, may 
apply for retesting--
    (a) After 30 days after the date the applicant failed the test; or
    (b) Before the 30 days have expired if the applicant presents a 
signed statement from an airman holding the certificate, rating, or 
inspection authorization sought by the applicant, which certifies that 
the airman has given the applicant additional instruction in each of 
the subjects failed and that the airman considers the applicant ready 
for retesting.


Sec. 66.27  Offenses involving alcohol or drugs.

    (a) A conviction for the violation of any Federal or State statute 
relating to the growing, processing, manufacture, sale, disposition, 
possession, transportation, or importation of narcotic drugs, 
marihuana, or depressant or stimulant drugs or substances, is grounds 
for--
    (1) Denial of an application for any certificate, rating, or 
inspection authorization issued under this part for a period of up to 1 
year after the date of final conviction; or
    (2) Suspension or revocation of any certificate, rating, or 
inspection authorization issued under this part.
    (b) The commission of an act prohibited by Sec. 91.19(a) of this 
chapter is grounds for--
    (1) Denial of an application for a certificate, rating, or 
inspection authorization issued under this part for a period of up to 1 
year after the date of that act; or
    (2) Suspension or revocation of any certificate, rating, or 
inspection authorization issued under this part.


Sec. 66.29  Refusal to submit to a drug or alcohol test.

    (a) This section applies to an employee who performs a function 
listed in appendix I or appendix J to part 121 of this chapter directly 
or by contract for a certificate holder operating under part 121 or 
part 135 of this chapter, or an operator as defined in Sec. 135.1(c) of 
this chapter.
    (b) Refusal by the holder of a certificate issued under this part 
to take a drug test required under the provisions of appendix I to part 
121 of this chapter or an alcohol test required under the provisions of 
appendix J to part 121 of this chapter, is grounds for--
    (1) Denial of an application for any certificate, rating, or 
inspection authorization issued under this part for a period of up to 1 
year after the date of that refusal; and
    (2) Suspension or revocation of any certificate, rating, or 
inspection authorization issued under this part.


Sec. 66.31  Waivers: Policy and procedures.

    (a) If the Administrator finds that the holder can safely exercise 
the privileges of the certificate and rating, the Administrator may 
issue any certificate or associated rating, specified under the 
provisions of this part, that authorizes the holder to exercise the 
privileges and limitations of the certificate and rating in deviation 
from Secs. 66.51(b), 66.57, 66.201(b), and 66.203(b).
    (b) An application for a certificate and rating, issued under the 
provisions of paragraph (a) of this section, shall be made on a form 
and in a manner prescribed by the Administrator and must be submitted 
to FAA Headquarters, Flight Standards Service, Aircraft Maintenance 
Division (AFS'300), 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591.
    (c) A certificate or any associated rating, issued under the 
provisions of paragraph (a) of this section, is effective as specified 
in the certificate and rating.

Subpart B--Aviation Maintenance Technicians


Sec. 66.51  Eligibility requirements: General.

    An applicant for an aviation maintenance technician certificate and 
any associated rating must--
    (a) Be at least 18 years of age;
    (b) Demonstrate the ability to read, write, speak, and understand 
the English language by reading and explaining appropriate maintenance 
publications and by writing defect and repair statements. If the 
applicant is unable to meet any of these requirements because of 
medical reasons, the Administrator may place such limitations on that 
applicant's certificate as are necessary for the safe maintenance, 
preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft;
    (c) Comply with the knowledge, experience, and competency 
requirements prescribed for the rating sought;
    (d) Comply with any additional eligibility requirements specified 
for the rating sought; and
    (e) Pass all of the prescribed tests for the rating sought, within 
a period of 24 months.


Sec. 66.53  Ratings.

    The following ratings are issued under this subpart:
    (a) Aircraft.
    (b) Aviation maintenance instructor.


Sec. 66.55  Aircraft rating: Knowledge requirements.

    (a) Except as specified in Sec. 66.61(a), each applicant for an 
aviation maintenance technician certificate with an aircraft rating 
must, after meeting the applicable requirements of Sec. 66.57, pass the 
applicable knowledge tests covering the construction and maintenance of 
aircraft appropriate to the certificate and rating, the regulations in 
this subpart, and the relevant provisions of this chapter.
    (b) Except as specified in Sec. 66.61(a), each applicant must pass 
all applicable knowledge tests before applying for the oral and 
practical tests prescribed by Sec. 66.59. A report of the knowledge 
tests will be made available to the applicant.


Sec. 66.57  Aircraft rating: Experience requirements.

    Each applicant for an aviation maintenance technician certificate 
with an aircraft rating must present--
    (a) An appropriate graduation certificate or a certificate of 
completion from a certificated aviation maintenance technician school; 
or
    (b) Documentary evidence, acceptable to the Administrator, of at 
least 5,000 hours of practical experience with the procedures, 
practices, materials, tools, machine tools, and equipment generally 
used in constructing, maintaining, or altering aircraft.


Sec. 66.59  Aircraft rating: Competency requirements.

    Each applicant for an aviation maintenance technician certificate 
with an aircraft rating must demonstrate competency in performing tasks 
appropriate to the certificate sought by passing both an oral and a 
practical test. These tests will be based on the subjects covered by 
the knowledge tests for the certificate and rating.


Sec. 66.61  Certificated aviation maintenance technician school 
students.

    (a) Whenever an aviation maintenance technician school certificated 
under part 147 of this chapter demonstrates to an FAA inspector that 
one of its students has made satisfactory progress at the school and is 
prepared to take the oral and practical tests prescribed by Sec. 66.59, 
that student may take those tests during the final subjects of that 
student's training in the approved curriculum before meeting the 
applicable experience requirements of Sec. 66.57 and before passing the 
knowledge tests prescribed by Sec. 66.55.
    (b) An applicant for an aviation maintenance technician certificate 
and rating under this part who has successfully completed all 
applicable knowledge tests is considered to meet

[[Page 37203]]

the knowledge, experience, and competency requirements prescribed for 
the rating sought if the applicant applies within 90 days after 
graduation from an aviation maintenance technician school, certificated 
under part 147 of this chapter, that is specifically authorized by the 
Administrator to test applicants on the competency requirements for the 
certificate and rating sought.


Sec. 66.63  Aircraft rating: Privileges and limitations.

    (a) Except as specified in paragraph (d) of this section, a 
certificated aviation maintenance technician with an aircraft rating 
may perform the maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration to 
any aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, 
component, or part thereof, and any additional duties in accordance 
with Sec. 66.157.
    (b) Except as specified in paragraph (d) of this section, a 
certificated aviation maintenance technician with an aircraft rating 
may supervise the maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration 
of, or after inspection, approve for return to service, any aircraft, 
airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part 
thereof provided the aviation maintenance technician, has--
    (1) Satisfactorily performed the work at an earlier date;
    (2) Demonstrated the ability to perform the work to the 
satisfaction of the Administrator;
    (3) Received training acceptable to the Administrator on the tasks 
to be performed; or
    (4) Performed the work while working under the direct supervision 
of a certificated aviation maintenance technician, certificated 
aviation maintenance technician (transport), or a certificated aviation 
repair specialist, who has--
    (i) Had previous experience in the specific operation concerned; or
    (ii) Received training acceptable to the Administrator on the tasks 
to be performed.
    (c) Except as specified in paragraph (d) of this section, a 
certificated aviation maintenance technician with an aircraft rating 
may perform the 100-hour inspection required by part 91 of this chapter 
on any aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, 
component, or part thereof, and approve that aircraft, airframe, 
aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part for return to 
service.
    (d) A certificated aviation maintenance technician with an aircraft 
rating may not--
    (1) Approve for return to service any aircraft certificated under 
part 25 or part 29 of this chapter except after the performance of--
    (i) Those tasks specified in paragraph (c) of appendix A to part 43 
of this chapter; or
    (ii) Other tasks specified by the Administrator;
    (2) Perform or supervise (unless under the direct supervision and 
control of a repair station certificated under part 145 of this chapter 
or of an air carrier operating under part 121 or part 135 of this 
chapter)--
    (i) A major repair or major alteration of a propeller; or
    (ii) Any repair or alteration of instruments other than a 
horizontal-card liquid-filled compass;
    (3) Approve for return to service--
    (i) Any aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, 
component, or part thereof after completion of a major repair or major 
alteration; or
    (ii) Any instrument other than a horizontal-card liquid-filled 
compass after completion of any repair or alteration;
    (4) Exercise the privileges of the certificate unless the aviation 
maintenance technician understands the current instructions for 
continued airworthiness and the maintenance instructions for the 
specific operation concerned.


Sec. 66.65  Aircraft rating: Recent experience requirements.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, a 
certificated aviation maintenance technician with an aircraft rating 
may not exercise the privileges of the aircraft rating unless the 
aviation maintenance technician has--
    (1) For at least 6 months within the preceding 24 months--
    (i) Served as an aviation maintenance technician;
    (ii) Served under the supervision of a certificated aviation 
maintenance technician or aviation maintenance technician (transport);
    (iii) Technically supervised other aviation maintenance 
technicians;
    (iv) Provided aviation maintenance instruction or served as the 
direct supervisor of persons providing aviation maintenance instruction 
for an aviation maintenance technician course or program acceptable to 
the Administrator;
    (v) Supervised, in an executive capacity, the maintenance, 
preventive maintenance, or alteration of any aircraft, airframe, 
aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof; or
    (vi) Been engaged in any combination of paragraphs (a)(1)(i) 
through (a)(1)(v) of this section; and
    (2) Within the preceding 24 months--
    (i) Successfully completed an aviation maintenance technician 
refresher course, inspection authorization refresher course, or other 
course of instruction acceptable to the Administrator and appropriate 
to the duties of an aviation maintenance technician;
    (ii) Performed maintenance or preventive maintenance for a 
certificate holder having a maintenance and preventive maintenance 
training program as required under Sec. 121.375 or Sec. 135.433 of this 
chapter;
    (iii) Performed maintenance or preventive maintenance for a U.S.-
certificated repair station that performs work in accordance with 
Sec. 145.2(a) of this chapter or conducts a maintenance and preventive 
maintenance training program; or
    (iv) Provided aviation maintenance instruction, or served as the 
direct supervisor of persons providing aviation maintenance 
instruction, for an aviation maintenance training course or program 
acceptable to the Administrator in which instruction is provided in the 
maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of any aircraft, 
airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part 
thereof.
    (b) A certificated aviation maintenance technician who has not met 
the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section may exercise the 
privileges of the certificate and rating (including for compensation or 
hire) if, within the preceding 24 months--
    (1) The aviation maintenance technician has successfully completed 
a requalification course acceptable to the Administrator; or
    (2) The Administrator has found the aviation maintenance technician 
competent to exercise the privileges of the certificate.
    (c) A certificated aviation maintenance technician who has met the 
requirements of paragraph (a)(1) of this section, but has not met the 
requirements specified in paragraph (a)(2) or (b) of this section may 
exercise the privileges of the certificate and rating, but not for 
compensation or hire.


Sec. 66.67  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Additional 
eligibility requirements.

    (a) An applicant for an aviation maintenance technician certificate 
with an aviation maintenance instructor rating must--
    (1) Hold a current and valid aviation maintenance technician 
certificate, with

[[Page 37204]]

an aircraft rating, that has been in effect for a total of at least 3 
years;
    (2) Have been actively engaged, for at least the 2-year period 
before the date of application, in maintaining aircraft in accordance 
with this chapter; and
    (3) Within 24 months of the date of application, pass a knowledge 
test on the subjects in which instruction is required under Sec. 66.69 
or, at the time of application--
    (i) Hold a current and valid ground instructor or flight instructor 
certificate;
    (ii) Present an appropriate graduation certificate, a certificate 
of completion, or other documentary evidence acceptable to the 
Administrator, that demonstrates the award of a degree in education, 
vocational education, technical education, or occupational education 
from an accredited institution; or
    (iii) Hold a current and valid State teaching certificate, 
acceptable to the Administrator, that requires the holder to obtain 
proficiency in the subjects specified in Sec. 66.69.
    (b) Before [date 12 months after the effective date of the final 
rule], an applicant who can present evidence acceptable to the 
Administrator, that he or she has served as an aviation maintenance 
instructor, or as the supervisor of aviation maintenance instructors at 
an aviation maintenance school certificated under part 147 of this 
chapter, need not comply with the requirements of paragraph (a)(3) of 
this section.


Sec. 66.69  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Instructional 
knowledge and proficiency.

    An applicant for an aviation maintenance technician certificate 
with an aviation maintenance instructor rating must satisfactorily 
demonstrate instructional knowledge and proficiency in the following 
subjects:
    (a) The learning process.
    (b) Elements of effective teaching.
    (c) Student evaluation and testing.
    (d) Course development.
    (e) Lesson planning.
    (f) Classroom training techniques.


Sec. 66.71  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Privileges and 
limitations.

    A certificated aviation maintenance technician with an aviation 
maintenance instructor rating--
    (a) May serve as an aviation maintenance instructor under the 
provisions of Secs. 147.23 and 147.36 of this chapter; and
    (b) May only exercise the privileges of that rating when holding a 
current and valid aviation maintenance technician certificate with an 
aircraft rating.


Sec. 66.73  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Recent experience 
requirements.

    A certificated aviation maintenance technician with an aviation 
maintenance instructor rating may not exercise the privileges of that 
rating unless within the preceding 24 months the individual--
    (a) Has provided 300 hours of aviation maintenance instruction;
    (b) Has, for a period of 300 hours, supervised other aviation 
maintenance instructors;
    (c) Has successfully completed an aviation maintenance technician 
refresher course or other course of instruction acceptable to the 
Administrator and appropriate to the duties of an aviation maintenance 
instructor; or
    (d) The Administrator has determined that the aviation maintenance 
technician meets the standards prescribed in this part for the issuance 
of the aviation maintenance technician certificate with the aviation 
maintenance instructor rating.

Subpart C--Aviation Maintenance Technicians (Transport)


Sec. 66.101  Eligibility requirements: General.

    An applicant for an aviation maintenance technician (transport) 
certificate, must--
    (a) Hold a current and valid aviation maintenance technician 
certificate with an aircraft rating; and
    (b) Comply with any additional eligibility requirements specified 
for the rating sought.


Sec. 66.103  Ratings.

    The following ratings are issued under this subpart:
    (a) Aircraft.
    (b) Aviation maintenance instructor.


Sec. 66.105  Transition to new certificates and ratings.

    (a) A mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings 
that was issued before, and was valid on [date 12 months after the 
effective date of the final rule], is equal to an aviation maintenance 
technician (transport) certificate with an aircraft rating and may be 
exchanged for such a corresponding certificate and rating.
    (b) The holder of a current and valid mechanic certificate with an 
airframe rating may exercise the privileges specified in Sec. 66.109; 
however, the holder may not approve the powerplant or propeller of any 
aircraft certificated under this chapter and any related appliance, 
component, or part thereof, for return to service.
    (c) The holder of a current and valid mechanic certificate with a 
powerplant rating may exercise the privileges specified in Sec. 66.109; 
however, the holder may not approve the airframe of any aircraft 
certificated under this chapter and any related appliance, component, 
or part thereof, for return to service.


Sec. 66.107  Aircraft rating: Additional eligibility requirements.

    An applicant for an aviation maintenance technician (transport) 
certificate with an aircraft rating must present an appropriate 
graduation certificate, a certificate of completion, or other 
documentary evidence acceptable to the Administrator, that demonstrates 
the satisfactory completion of--
    (a) An aviation maintenance technician (transport) training 
program, administered by an approved training provider, that meets the 
requirements of appendix A to this part;
    (b) An aviation maintenance technician (transport) training program 
approved under part 147 of this chapter that meets the requirements of 
paragraph (d) of appendix A to this part; or
    (c) A training program approved under part 121, subpart L, or part 
135, subpart J, of this chapter that meets the requirements of 
paragraph (d) of appendix A to this part.


Sec. 66.109  Aircraft rating: Privileges and limitations.

    (a) Except as specified in paragraph (d) of this section, a 
certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport) with an 
aircraft rating may perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, or 
alteration on any aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, 
appliance, or component part thereof, and any additional duties in 
accordance with Sec. 66.157.
    (b) Except as specified in paragraph (d) of this section, a 
certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport) may supervise 
the maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of, and after 
inspection approve for return to service, any aircraft, airframe, 
aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof, 
provided the aviation maintenance technician (transport) has--
    (1) Satisfactorily performed the work at an earlier date;
    (2) Demonstrated the ability to perform the work to the 
satisfaction of the Administrator;
    (3) Received training acceptable to the Administrator on the tasks 
to be performed; or
    (4) Performed the work while working under the direct supervision 
of a certificated aviation maintenance

[[Page 37205]]

technician, certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport), 
or certificated aviation repair specialist who has--
    (i) Had previous experience in the specific operation concerned; or
    (ii) Received training acceptable to the Administrator on the tasks 
to be performed.
    (c) Except as specified in paragraph (d) of this section, a 
certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport) may perform 
the 100-hour inspection required by part 91 of this chapter on any 
aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, 
or part thereof, and approve the aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, 
propeller, appliance, component, or part for return to service.
    (d) A certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport) with 
an aircraft rating may not--
    (1) Perform or supervise (unless under the direct supervision and 
control of a repair station certificated under part 145 of this chapter 
or of an air carrier operating under part 121 or part 135 of this 
chapter)--
    (i) A major repair or major alteration of a propeller; or
    (ii) Any repair or alteration of instruments, other than a 
horizontal-card liquid-filled compass;
    (2) Approve for return to service--
    (i) Any aircraft, airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, 
component, or part thereof after completion of a major repair or major 
alteration; or
    (ii) Any instrument other than a horizontal-card liquid-filled 
compass after completion of any repair or alteration;
    (3) Exercise the privileges of the certificate unless the aviation 
maintenance technician (transport) understands the current instructions 
for continued airworthiness and the maintenance instructions for the 
specific operation concerned.


Sec. 66.111  Aircraft rating: Recent experience requirements.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, a 
certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport) with an 
aircraft rating may not exercise the privileges of the aircraft rating 
unless the aviation maintenance technician (transport) has--
    (1) For at least 6 months within the preceding 24 months--
    (i) Served as an aviation maintenance technician (transport) 
engaged in the maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of 
aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29 of this chapter, or of 
any airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part 
thereof;
    (ii) Served under the supervision of a certificated aviation 
maintenance technician (transport) engaged in the maintenance, 
preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft certificated under 
part 25 or part 29 of this chapter, or of any airframe, aircraft 
engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof;
    (iii) Technically supervised other aviation maintenance technicians 
or aviation maintenance technicians (transport) engaged in the 
maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft 
certificated under part 25 or part 29 of this chapter, or of any 
airframe, aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part 
thereof;
    (iv) Provided aviation maintenance instruction or served as the 
direct supervisor of persons providing aviation maintenance instruction 
for an aviation maintenance training course or program acceptable to 
the Administrator, in which instruction is provided in the maintenance, 
preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft certificated under 
part 25 or part 29 of this chapter, or of any airframe, aircraft 
engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof;
    (v) Supervised, in an executive capacity, the maintenance, 
preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft certificated under 
part 25 or part 29 of this chapter, or of any airframe, aircraft 
engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof; or
    (vi) Been engaged in any combination of paragraphs (a)(1)(i) 
through (a)(1)(v) of this section; and
    (2) Within the preceding 24 months--
    (i) Successfully completed an aviation maintenance technician 
(transport) refresher course, inspection authorization refresher 
course, or course of instruction acceptable to the Administrator and 
appropriate to the duties of an aviation maintenance technician 
(transport);
    (ii) Performed maintenance or preventive maintenance for a 
certificate holder with a maintenance and preventive maintenance 
training program required under Sec. 121.375 or Sec. 135.433 of this 
chapter;
    (iii) Performed maintenance or preventive maintenance for a U.S.-
certificated repair station that performs work in accordance with 
Sec. 145.2(a) of this chapter or conducts a maintenance and preventive 
maintenance training program; or
    (iv) Provided aviation maintenance instruction or served as the 
direct supervisor of persons providing aviation maintenance instruction 
for an aviation maintenance training course or program acceptable to 
the Administrator, in which instruction is provided in the maintenance, 
preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft, or of any airframe, 
aircraft engine, propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof.
    (b) A certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport) who 
has not met the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section may 
exercise the privileges of the certificate and rating (including for 
compensation or hire) if, within the preceding 24 months--
    (1) The aviation maintenance technician (transport) has 
successfully completed a requalification course acceptable to the 
Administrator; or
    (2) The Administrator has found that the aviation maintenance 
technician (transport) is competent to exercise the privileges of the 
certificate.
    (c) A certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport) who 
has met the requirements of paragraph (a)(1) of this section, but has 
not met the requirements specified in paragraph (a)(2) or (b) of this 
section, may exercise the privileges of the certificate and rating, but 
not for compensation or hire.
    (d) The holder of an aviation maintenance technician (transport) 
certificate with an aircraft rating, who has not met the recent 
experience requirements of this section but has met the recent 
experience requirements of Sec. 66.65 for the holder of an aviation 
maintenance technician certificate with an aircraft rating, may 
exercise the privileges of an aviation maintenance technician 
certificate with an aircraft rating until the recent experience 
requirements of this section have been met.


Sec. 66.113  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Additional 
eligibility requirements.

    (a) An applicant for an aviation maintenance technician (transport) 
certificate with an aviation maintenance instructor rating must--
    (1) Hold a current and valid aviation maintenance technician 
(transport) certificate with an aircraft rating that has been in effect 
for a total of at least 3 years;
    (2) Have been actively engaged, for at least the 2-year period 
before the date of application, in maintaining aircraft in accordance 
with this chapter; and
    (3) Within 24 months of the date of application, pass a knowledge 
test on the subjects in which instruction is required under Sec. 66.69 
or, at the time of application--
    (i) Hold a current and valid ground instructor or flight instructor 
certificate; or

[[Page 37206]]

    (ii) Present an appropriate graduation certificate, a certificate 
of completion, or other documentary evidence acceptable to the 
Administrator, that demonstrates the award of a degree in education, 
vocational education, technical education, or occupational education, 
from an accredited institution; or
    (iii) Hold a current and valid State teaching certificate, 
acceptable to the Administrator, that requires the holder to obtain 
proficiency in the subjects specified in Sec. 66.69.
    (b) A person who meets the requirements for the issuance of an 
aviation maintenance technician (transport) certificate with an 
aircraft rating and who holds a current and valid aviation maintenance 
technician certificate with aircraft and aviation maintenance 
instructor ratings need not comply with the requirements of paragraph 
(a) of this section and will be issued an aviation maintenance 
technician (transport) certificate with aircraft and aviation 
maintenance instructor ratings upon application.
    (c) Before [date 12 months after the effective date of the final 
rule], an applicant who can present evidence acceptable to the 
Administrator, that he or she has served as an aviation maintenance 
instructor or as the supervisor of aviation maintenance instructors at 
an aviation maintenance school certificated under part 147 of this 
chapter need not comply with the requirements of paragraph (a)(3) of 
this section.


Sec. 66.115  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Privileges and 
limitations.

    A certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport) with an 
aviation maintenance instructor rating--
    (a) May serve as an aviation maintenance instructor under the 
provisions of Secs. 147.23 and 147.36 of this chapter; and
    (b) May only exercise the privileges of that rating when holding a 
current and valid aviation maintenance technician (transport) 
certificate with an aircraft rating.


Sec. 66.117  Aviation maintenance instructor rating: Recent experience 
requirements.

    (a) A certificated aviation maintenance technician (transport) with 
an aviation maintenance instructor rating may not exercise the 
privileges of that rating unless within the preceding 24 months the 
individual--
    (1) Has provided 300 hours of aviation maintenance instruction;
    (2) Has for a period of 300 hours supervised other aviation 
maintenance instructors;
    (3) Has successfully completed an aviation maintenance technician 
(transport) refresher course or other course of instruction acceptable 
to the Administrator and appropriate to the duties of an aviation 
maintenance instructor; or
    (4) The Administrator has determined that the aviation maintenance 
technician (transport) meets the standards prescribed in this part for 
the issuance of the aviation maintenance technician (transport) 
certificate with the aviation maintenance instructor rating.
    (b) The holder of an aviation maintenance technician (transport) 
certificate with an aviation maintenance instructor rating who has not 
met the recent experience requirements of this section but has met the 
recent experience requirements of Sec. 66.73 for the holder of an 
aviation maintenance technician certificate with an aviation 
maintenance instructor rating, may exercise the privileges of an 
aviation maintenance technician certificate with the aviation 
maintenance instructor rating until the recent experience requirements 
of this section have been met.


Sec. 66.119  Aviation maintenance technician (transport) training 
providers.

    (a) Except as specified in paragraph (b) of this section, an 
applicant for approval as a provider of an aviation maintenance 
technician (transport) training program specified in Sec. 66.107(a) 
must--
    (1) Submit a written request for approval to the Administrator; and
    (2) Comply with the requirements of appendix A to this part.
    (b) An applicant for approval as a provider of an aviation 
maintenance technician (transport) training program that is a 
certificate holder operating under part 121 or part 135 of this 
chapter, an aviation maintenance technician school certificated under 
part 147 of this chapter, or a repair station that performs 
maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alterations under Sec. 145.2(a) 
of this chapter, must comply with paragraph (a)(1) of this section and 
submit evidence acceptable to the Administrator, that shows the 
training program meets the requirements of paragraph (d) of appendix A 
to this part.

Subpart D--Inspection Authorizations


Sec. 66.151  Eligibility requirements: General.

    (a) To be eligible for an inspection authorization, an applicant 
must--
    (1) Hold a current and valid aviation maintenance technician 
certificate or aviation maintenance technician (transport) certificate;
    (2) Have held a current and valid aviation maintenance technician 
certificate or aviation maintenance technician (transport) certificate 
for a total of at least 3 years;
    (3) Have been actively engaged, for at least the 2-year period 
before the date of application, in the maintenance of aircraft 
certificated and maintained in accordance with this chapter;
    (4) Have a fixed base of operations at which the applicant may be 
located in person or by telephone during a normal working week but 
which need not be the place where the applicant will exercise 
inspection authority;
    (5) Have available the equipment, facilities, and inspection data 
necessary to properly inspect airframes, aircraft engines, propellers, 
or any related component, part, or appliance;
    (6) Pass a knowledge test that demonstrates the certificate 
holder's ability to inspect according to safety standards for approving 
aircraft for return to service after major and minor repairs, major and 
minor alterations, annual inspections, and progressive inspections, 
which are performed under part 43 of this chapter; and
    (7) Successfully complete an inspection authorization refresher 
course acceptable to the Administrator, of not less than 8 hours of 
instruction during the 12-month period preceding the application.
    (b) An applicant intending to inspect and approve for return to 
service any aircraft certificated under part 25 or part 29 of this 
chapter, except those aircraft maintained in accordance with a 
continuous airworthiness maintenance program approved under part 121 of 
this chapter must--
    (1) Hold a current and valid aviation maintenance technician 
(transport) certificate; and
    (2) Have been actively engaged, for at least the 2-year period 
before the date of application, in the maintenance, preventive 
maintenance, or alteration of aircraft certificated under part 25 or 
part 29 of this chapter, or of any airframe, aircraft engine, 
propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof.
    (c) An applicant who fails the knowledge test prescribed in 
paragraph (a)(6) of this section may not apply for retesting until at 
least 90 days after the date of the test.


Sec. 66.153  Duration of authorization.

    (a) Each inspection authorization expires on the last day of the 
24th month after the date of issuance.
    (b) An inspection authorization ceases to be effective whenever any 
of the following occurs:
    (1) The authorization is surrendered, suspended, or revoked.
    (2) The holder no longer has a fixed base of operation.

[[Page 37207]]

    (3) The holder no longer has the equipment, facilities, or 
inspection data required by Sec. 66.151(a)(5) for issuance of the 
authorization.
    (4) The holder no longer holds a current and valid aviation 
maintenance technician certificate or aviation maintenance technician 
(transport) certificate, as appropriate.
    (c) The holder of an inspection authorization that is suspended or 
revoked shall, upon the Administrator's request, return it to the 
Administrator.


Sec. 66.155  Renewal of authorization.

    (a) To be eligible for renewal of an inspection authorization for a 
2-year period, an applicant must, within 90 days before the expiration 
of the inspection authorization, present evidence at an FAA Flight 
Standards District Office or an International Field Office that the 
applicant still meets the requirements of Sec. 66.151(a)(1) through 
(a)(5) and show that, during the current period that the applicant held 
the inspection authorization, the applicant has--
    (1) Performed at least one annual inspection for each 3 months that 
the applicant held the current authority;
    (2) Performed inspections of at least two major repairs or major 
alterations for each 3 months that the applicant held the current 
authority;
    (3) Performed or supervised and approved at least one progressive 
inspection in accordance with standards prescribed by the Administrator 
for each 12 months that the applicant held the current authority;
    (4) Performed any combination of paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) 
of this section;
    (5) Successfully completed an inspection authorization refresher 
course or series of courses acceptable to the Administrator, of not 
less than 16 hours of instruction during the 24-month period preceding 
the application for renewal; or
    (6) Passed an oral test administered by an FAA inspector to 
determine that the applicant's knowledge of applicable regulations and 
standards is current.
    (b) An applicant intending to remove the limitation specified in 
Sec. 66.157(b) must present evidence that he or she still meets the 
requirements of Sec. 66.151(a) and (b) and that the inspections or 
maintenance required to be performed or supervised and approved under 
paragraph (a) of this section involved aircraft certificated under part 
25 or part 29 of this chapter, or any airframe, aircraft engine, 
propeller, appliance, component, or part thereof.


Sec. 66.157  Privileges and limitations.

    (a) Except as specified in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, 
the holder of an inspection authorization with either a current and 
valid aviation maintenance technician certificate or a current and 
valid aviation maintenance technician (transport) certificate may:
    (1) Inspect and approve for return to service any aircraft, 
airframe, aircraft engine, propeller appliance, component, or part 
thereof after completion of a major repair or major alteration 
performed in accordance with part 43 of this chapter and technical data 
approved by the Administrator.
    (2) Perform an annual inspection, or perform or supervise a 
progressive inspection, according to Secs. 43.13 and 43.15 of this 
chapter, on any aircraft and approve the aircraft for return to 
service.
    (b) The holder of an inspection authorization with a current and 
valid aviation maintenance technician certificate may not inspect and 
approve for return to service any aircraft certificated under part 25 
or part 29 of this chapter.
    (c) The holder of an inspection authorization with either a current 
and valid aviation maintenance technician certificate or a current and 
valid aviation maintenance technician (transport) certificate may not 
inspect and approve for return to service any aircraft maintained in 
accordance with a continuous airworthiness maintenance program approved 
under part 121 of this chapter.
    (d) When exercising the privileges of an inspection authorization, 
the holder shall keep it available for inspection by the aircraft owner 
and the aviation maintenance technician or aviation maintenance 
technician (transport) who submit the aircraft, repair, or alteration 
for approval (if any), and shall present it at the request of the 
Administrator or an authorized representative of the National 
Transportation Safety Board, or at the request of any Federal, State, 
or local law enforcement officer.
    (e) If the holder of an inspection authorization changes his or her 
fixed base of operation, the holder may not exercise the privileges of 
the authorization until he or she has notified, in writing, the FAA 
Flight Standards District Office, or International Field Office, for 
the area in which the new base is located, of the change.

Subpart E--Aviation Repair Specialists


Sec. 66.201  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the 
basis of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I): 
Eligibility.

    An applicant for an aviation repair specialist certificate and 
rating issued on the basis of proficiency in a designated specialty 
area (ARS-I) must--
    (a) Be at least 18 years of age;
    (b) Demonstrate the ability to read, write, speak, and understand 
the English language by reading and explaining appropriate maintenance 
publications and by writing defect and repair statements. If the 
applicant is unable to meet any of these requirements because of 
medical reasons, the Administrator may place such limitations on that 
applicant's certificate as are necessary for the safe maintenance, 
preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft; and
    (c) Present either--
    (1) An appropriate graduation certificate, a certificate of 
completion, or other documentary evidence acceptable to the 
Administrator, that demonstrates satisfactory completion of an aviation 
repair specialist training course or program for a rating in a 
specialty area designated by the Administrator; or
    (2) Before [date 12 months after the effective date of the final 
rule], evidence acceptable to the Administrator, of the ability to 
perform those tasks appropriate to the certificate and rating in the 
designated specialty area sought.


Sec. 66.203  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the 
basis of employment (ARS-II): Eligibility.

    An applicant for an employment-based aviation repair specialist 
certificate (ARS-II) must--
    (a) Be at least 18 years of age;
    (b) Demonstrate the ability to read, write, speak, and understand 
the English language by reading and explaining appropriate maintenance 
publications and by writing defect and repair statements. If the 
applicant is unable to meet any of these requirements because of 
medical reasons, the Administrator may place such limitations on that 
applicant's certificate as are necessary for the safe maintenance, 
preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft;
    (c) Be specially qualified to perform maintenance on aircraft, 
airframes, aircraft engines, propellers, appliances, components, or 
parts thereof, that is appropriate to the job in which that person is 
employed;
    (d) Be employed in a specific job that requires those special 
qualifications, by

[[Page 37208]]

a certificated repair station or by a certificated commercial operator 
or certificated air carrier, that is required by its operating 
certificate or approved operations specifications to provide a 
continuous airworthiness maintenance program according to its 
certificate holder's manual;
    (e) Be recommended for certification, by his or her employer and to 
the satisfaction of the Administrator, as able to satisfactorily 
maintain aircraft or appliances, components, or parts, appropriate to 
the job for which the person is employed; and
    (f) Have either--
    (1) At least 3,000 hours of practical experience in the procedures, 
practices, inspection methods, materials, tools, machine tools, and 
equipment generally used in the maintenance duties of the specific job 
for which the person is to be employed and certificated; or
    (2) Completed formal training that is acceptable to the 
Administrator and specifically designed to qualify the applicant for 
the job in which the applicant is to be employed.


Sec. 66.205  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued to 
experimental aircraft builders (ARS-III): Eligibility.

    An applicant for an aviation repair specialist certificate issued 
to an experimental aircraft builder (ARS-III), must--
    (a) Be at least 18 years of age;
    (b) Be the primary builder of the aircraft to which the privileges 
of the certificate are applicable;
    (c) Show, to the satisfaction of the Administrator, that the 
individual has the requisite skill to determine whether the aircraft is 
in a condition for safe operation; and
    (d) Be a citizen of the United States or an individual citizen of a 
foreign country who has been lawfully admitted for permanent residence 
in the United States.


Sec. 66.207  Transition to new certificates.

    (a) A valid repairman certificate (other than a repairman 
certificate issued to an experimental aircraft builder) is equal to an 
aviation repair specialist certificate issued on the basis of 
employment (ARS'II).
    (b) A valid repairman certificate (experimental aircraft builder) 
is equal to an aviation repair specialist certificate issued to an 
experimental aircraft builder (ARS-III).


Sec. 66.209  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the 
basis of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS'I): Privileges 
and limitations.

    (a) The holder of an aviation repair specialist certificate issued 
on the basis of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I) may 
perform or supervise the maintenance, preventive maintenance, or 
alteration of aircraft, airframes, aircraft engines, propellers, 
appliances, components, and parts appropriate to the designated 
specialty area for which the aviation repair specialist is 
certificated, but only in connection with employment by a certificate 
holder operating under part 121 or part 135 of this chapter or a repair 
station certificated under part 145 of this chapter.
    (b) The holder of an aviation repair specialist certificate issued 
on the basis of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I) may 
not perform or supervise duties under the aviation repair specialist 
certificate unless the individual understands the current instructions 
of the certificate holder by whom the aviation repair specialist is 
employed and the instructions for continued airworthiness that relate 
to the specific operations concerned.


Sec. 66.211  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the 
basis of employment (ARS-II): Privileges and limitations.

    (a) The holder of an aviation repair specialist certificate issued 
on the basis of employment (ARS-II) may perform or supervise the 
maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of aircraft, 
airframes, aircraft engines, propellers, appliances, components, and 
parts thereof appropriate to the job in which the aviation repair 
specialist is employed and certificated, but only in connection with 
duties for the certificate holder by whom the aviation repair 
specialist was employed and recommended.
    (b) The holder of an aviation repair specialist certificate issued 
on the basis of employment (ARS-II) may not perform or supervise duties 
under the aviation repair specialist certificate unless the person 
understands the current instructions of the certificate holder by whom 
the aviation repair specialist is employed and the instructions for 
continued airworthiness that relate to the specific operations 
concerned.


Sec. 66.213  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued to 
experimental aircraft builders (ARS-III): Privileges and limitations.

    The holder of an aviation repair specialist certificate issued to 
an experimental aircraft builder (ARS-III) may perform condition 
inspections on the aircraft constructed by the holder, in accordance 
with the operating limitations of that aircraft.


Sec. 66.215  Aviation repair specialist certificates issued on the 
basis of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I): Recent 
experience requirements.

    The holder of an aviation repair specialist certificate issued on 
the basis of proficiency in a designated specialty area (ARS-I) may not 
exercise the privileges of the certificate unless the holder meets the 
current qualification and proficiency requirements for the issuance of 
the certificate and rating in the designated specialty area.

Appendix A to Part 66--Aviation Maintenance Technician (Transport) 
Training Program Curriculum Requirements

    (a) Form of training program outline. An applicant for approval 
as a training provider must submit a training program outline to the 
Administrator. The training program outline may be submitted in 
paper, electronic, or any other form that is acceptable to the 
Administrator; however, it shall include a table of contents. The 
table of contents must specify those subject areas taught in the 
program and the number of curriculum hours allotted to each subject 
area.
    (b) Content of training program outline. The training program 
outline must contain all of subject area headings specified in this 
appendix; however, the headings are not required to be arranged in 
the outline exactly as listed in this appendix. Any arrangement of 
headings and subheadings will be satisfactory provided that the 
outline indicates that instruction will be provided in each subject 
area for at least the minimum number of hours specified in this 
appendix. Each general subject area of the outline shall be 
subdivided in detail, showing the items to be covered.
    (c) Additional subject areas. Any training provider may include 
additional subjects that are not specified in this appendix in the 
training program outline; however, the number of hours allotted to 
training in each subject area must be specified. Hourly requirements 
devoted to additional subject areas not specified in this appendix 
are not included in the determination of a program's compliance with 
the minimum training requirements specified in this appendix.
    (d) Minimum training program requirements. Unless approved by 
the Administrator in accordance with paragraph (h) of this appendix, 
the following subject areas and classroom hours for each subject 
area are considered the minimum training requirements for an 
aviation maintenance technician (transport) training program:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Classroom
                         Subject area                            hours  
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Advanced electronics.........................................        229
Composites...................................................         62
Structural repair............................................         86
Powerplants and systems......................................         58
Safety and environment.......................................         69
Publications.................................................         69
                                                              ----------

[[Page 37209]]

                                                                        
    Total Hours..............................................        573
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (e) Facilities, equipment, and material. An applicant for 
authority to conduct a training program leading to the issuance of 
the aviation maintenance technician (transport) certificate must 
have the following facilities, equipment, and materials:
    (1) Facilities--Suitable classrooms, laboratories, and shop 
facilities, adequate to accommodate the largest number of students 
scheduled for attendance at any one time, must be provided. Such 
classrooms, laboratories, and shop facilities shall be properly 
heated, lighted, and ventilated.
    (2) Equipment and materials--Suitable devices for the 
instruction of each student in the theoretical and practical aspects 
of the subjects contained in the training program shall be provided. 
This material may include, but shall not be limited to, acceptable 
textbooks, operations manuals, chalkboards, calculators, computers, 
and visual aids.
    (f) Instructors. The number of instructors available for 
conducting the program of instruction shall be determined according 
to the needs and facilities of the applicant. However, the ratio of 
students per instructor in each shop class may not exceed 25 
students per 1 instructor.
    (g) Credit for previous training. A training provider may 
evaluate an entrant's previous training and, where the training is 
verifiable and comparable to portions of the training program, the 
training provider may, as each individual case warrants, allow 
credit for such training, commensurate with accepted training 
practices. Before credit is allowed, the individual requesting 
credit must pass an examination given by the training provider, 
which is equivalent to those examinations given by the training 
provider for the same subject in the training program. Where credit 
is allowed, the basis for the allowance, the results of any tests 
used to establish the credit, and the total hours credited must be 
incorporated as a part of the student's records, as specified in 
paragraph (i) of this appendix.
    (h) Revision of training program. (1) After initial approval of 
a training provider, the training provider may apply to the 
Administrator for a revision to the training program. Requests for 
the revision of a training program, which include modifications to 
the facilities, equipment, and material used, or a reduction in the 
number of hours of instruction provided to fewer than the specified 
minimum requirements, shall be accomplished in the same manner 
established for securing original approval of the training provider. 
Revisions must be submitted in such form that the revision can be 
readily included in the training program outline so that obsolete 
portions of the outline can be readily superseded by the revision.
    (2) A modification of the training program, or a reduction in 
the number of hours of training provided to fewer than the specified 
minimum requirements, is based on improved training effectiveness 
because of the use of improved training methods and training aids, 
an increase in the quality of instruction, the use of special 
student entry requirements, the granting of credit for previous 
experience or training, or any combination thereof.
    (3) The list of instructors may be revised at any time without 
request for approval, provided the minimum requirements are 
maintained and the local FAA principal maintenance inspector is 
notified of the revision.
    (4) Whenever the Administrator finds that revisions are 
necessary for the continued adequacy of the training program, the 
training provider shall, after notification by the Administrator, 
make any changes in the training program, that the Administrator 
deems necessary.
    (i) Student records and reports. Approval of a training provider 
may not be continued unless the training provider keeps an accurate 
record of each student, including a chronological log of all 
instruction, subjects covered, examinations, grades, and attendance 
records (including a record of the manner in which missed material 
was covered). To retain approval, a training provider also must 
prepare and transmit to the Federal Aviation Administration, not 
later than January 31 of each year, a report containing the 
following information:
    (1) The names of all students graduated, student attendance 
records, and student grades for the program.
    (2) The names of all students failed or dropped, together with 
school grades and reasons for dropping.
    (3) Upon request, the Administrator may waive the reporting 
requirements specified in paragraphs (i)(1) and (2) of this 
appendix, for a training program that is part of an approved 
training course conducted under the following parts or subparts: 
part 121, subpart L; part 135, subpart J; or part 147 of this 
chapter.
    (j) Statement of graduation and records of training completion. 
Each student who successfully completes a training program shall be 
given a statement of graduation. Each student who completes a 
portion of a training program shall, upon request, be given a record 
of the training completed.
    (k) Contracts or agreements. (1) An approved training provider 
may contract with other persons to obtain suitable course work, 
curriculum, programs, instruction, aircraft, simulators, or other 
training devices or equipment.
    (2) An approved training provider may contract with another 
person to conduct any portion or all of a training program. The 
approved training provider may not authorize that person to contract 
for the conduct of the program by a third party.
    (3) In all cases, the approved training provider is responsible 
for the content and quality of the instruction provided.
    (4) A copy of each contract authorized under this paragraph 
shall be retained by the approved training provider and is subject 
to review by the Administrator during the period of the contract and 
within 2 years after the termination of its provisions.
    (l) Change of ownership, name, or location. (1) Change of 
ownership--Approval of a training provider may not be continued 
after the ownership of the training program has changed. The new 
owner must obtain a new approval by following the procedures 
prescribed for original approval.
    (2) Change in name--An approved training provider or program, 
changed in name but not changed in ownership, remains valid if the 
change is reported within 30 days by the training provider to the 
local Flight Standards District Office.
    (3) Change in location--Approval for a training provider remains 
in effect even though the approved training provider changes 
location if the change is reported by the training provider to the 
local Flight Standards District Office within 30 days. Approval may, 
however, be withdrawn if, after inspection, the facilities, 
equipment, and material at the new location do not meet the 
requirements of paragraph (e) of this appendix.
    (m) Cancellation of approval. (1) Failure to meet or maintain 
any of the standards set forth in this appendix for the approval of 
a training provider shall be considered a sufficient reason for 
discontinuing approval of the training provider.
    (2) If a training provider decides to cancel its approval 
voluntarily, the training provider shall send a letter requesting 
cancellation to the Administrator through the local Flight Standards 
District Office. The request shall contain the current letter of 
approval for the training provider.
    (n) Duration. Unless an approved training provider is a 
certificate holder operating under part 121 or part 135 of this 
chapter, an aviation maintenance technician school certificated 
under part 147 of this chapter, or a repair station that performs 
work under Sec. 145.2(a) of this chapter, the authority to operate a 
training program shall expire 24 months after the last day of the 
month in which the approval was issued. If the approved training 
provider is a certificate holder operating under part 121 or part 
135 of this chapter, an aviation maintenance technician school 
certificated under part 147 of this chapter, or a repair station 
that performs work under Sec. 145.2(a) of this chapter, the 
authority to operate a training program will remain effective for 
the duration of the holder's certificate.
    (o) Renewal. Application for renewal of authority to conduct a 
training program shall be made by letter addressed to the 
Administrator through the local Flight Standards District Office at 
any time within 60 days before the expiration date of the current 
approval. Renewal of a training provider's approval will depend on 
the training program meeting established standards and the record of 
the training provider.

PART 147--AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN SCHOOLS

    10. The authority citation for part 147 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701-44702, 44707-44709.

    11. Section 147.23 is revised to read as follows:

[[Page 37210]]

Sec. 147.23  Instructor requirements.

    An applicant for an aviation maintenance technician school 
certificate and rating, or for an additional rating, must provide the 
number of instructors, determined by the Administrator to be sufficient 
to provide adequate supervision of the students, who hold appropriate 
aviation maintenance technician or aviation maintenance technician 
(transport) certificates with aviation maintenance instructor ratings; 
the instructors shall be provided after [date 12 months after the 
effective date of the final rule], and shall include at least 1 
aviation maintenance technician with an aviation maintenance instructor 
rating or 1 aviation maintenance technician (transport) with an 
aviation maintenance instructor rating for each 25 students in each 
shop class. However, the applicant may provide specialized instructors 
who are not certificated aviation maintenance technicians or aviation 
maintenance technicians (transport) to teach mathematics, physics, 
basic electricity, basic hydraulics, drawing, or similar subjects. The 
applicant is required to maintain a list of the names and 
qualifications of specialized instructors and, upon request, provide a 
copy of the list to the FAA.
    12. Section 147.36 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 147.36  Maintenance instructor requirements.

    Each certificated aviation maintenance technician school shall, 
after certification or addition of a rating, continue to provide the 
number of instructors that the Administrator deems sufficient to 
provide adequate instruction to the students and who hold appropriate 
aviation maintenance technician or aviation maintenance technician 
(transport) certificates with aviation maintenance instructor ratings, 
including after [date 12 months after the effective date of the final 
rule], at least 1 certificated aviation maintenance instructor for each 
25 students in each shop class. The school may continue to provide 
specialized instructors who are not certificated aviation maintenance 
technicians or aviation maintenance technicians (transport) to teach 
mathematics, physics, basic electricity, basic hydraulics, drawing, or 
similar subjects.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on June 26, 1998.
Ava L. Mims,
Acting Director, Flight Standards Service.
[FR Doc. 98-17589 Filed 7-8-98; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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